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76 m. 



Copyright 

1915 

By Isaac Flagg 

..Atfting Rights Reserved 



iCI.D 41081 



Aisr- rp in It 



To 
Mabel Lamme Hays 

Rarest of enchantment deem 
The beginning and the end : 

At life's morning in the dream, 
At life's evening in the friend. 



PRINTED AND BOUND BT 
THE ROTCBOFTEBS 
EX8T AURORA, NEW YORK 



THE ARGUMENT 




OMER relates that Ulysses, king of 
Ithaca in Greece, sailing homeward after 
the capture of Troy, drifted into unknown 
seas in consequence of the wrath of 
Neptune ; and after losing all but one 
of his twelve ships, landed with the sole 
remaining vessel upon the island of the 
enchantress Circe, who transformed one-half of his ship's 
company, twenty-two in number, into swine. He relates 
further that Ulysses, apprised by Mercury of the fate of his 
companions, and furnished by the god with an antidote for 
the spells of the sorceress, compelled her to restore his men 
to their human shape. Thereupon, at the invitation of Circe 
the rest of the crew join their mates at her palace, where all 
spend a year in festivity and merry-making before pro- 
ceeding on their way with precise instructions from the 
Enchantress regarding the homeward voyage. 
The experiences of Ulysses and his followers, as described in 
the Odyssey, immediately previous to their arrival at the 
Isle of Circe, had been of an extraordinary and alarming 
character. A number of men had been devoured by Poly- 
phemus the Cyclops in his cave, where he had entrapped a 
party, the survivors escaping by riding out, clasped under 
the bellies of his sheep, after they had made the monster 
drunk and blinded his one eye with a fiery stake. Later, 
they came to the domain of ^Eolus, king of the winds, who 



presented Ulysses with a number of bags holding the adverse 
winds in confinement. But during the sleep of their com- 
mander, when already near their native shore, some of the 
men through curiosity untying the bags, the winds broke 
loose and swept them back to ^Eolus, who drove them all 
forth with contempt. They next encountered the Lsestry- 
gones, a race of man-eating giants. Being shown the way to 
the town by a daughter of the giant king, some men were 
seized and devoured on the spot ; while from an attack 
made upon the ships collected in the harbor only one vessel 
succeeded in escaping. 

No mention is made of Penelope, the wife of Ulysses, at any 
point in the story of Circe ; but we read that Ulysses lingered 
in the enchanted island, until his men were finally compelled, 
seizing an opportunity when Circe was away, to remonstrate 
with their chief and rouse him to thoughts of a return to his 
home. 

Homer says that the attendants of the Enchantress in her 
palace were nymphs, such as derive their being from the 
fountains, the groves, and the rivers flowing to the sea. 

The First Act of the play brings Ulysses and his companions 
into Circe's palace ; the Second Act takes them out of it. 





CIRCE 



Dramatic Fantasy 



PERSONS REPRESENTED 



Nymphs, companions and attend- 
ants to Circe 



the cook's 



CIRCE, the Enchantress 

Philinna 

Thermia 

Myrto 

Thrattis, the lute-girl 

Graea, the dumb swine-maiden 

Other nymphs attending Circe 

MiKKOS, an ape 

ULYSSES, a Commander 

EuRYLOCHUS, his mate 

Theron, the ship's cook 

Elpenor, a feeble-minded youth, 

assistant 
Glaucus ^ 
Phorbas 
Philemon 
Xenias 

Other members of Ulysses' ship's-company 
Mercury, Messenger of the Immortals and Luck- 

bringer to men 

The Place : A small woody island, inhabited only by the 
Enchantress and her Nymphs, who dwell in a palace at the 
centre and summit of the isle. 

[5] 



Sailors 



CIRCE 



y\€^ ONE 




PRELIMINARY scene of mute action. 
The front of Circe's palace at the hour 
just after sunset. The edifice is of vari- 
ously tinted stone, a combination of 
several architectural masses. The win- 
dows of the building are tall and very 
narrow, overshadowed with creeping 
plants. Its main entrance, at the Left of the Centre, is from 
a massive porch with gargoyles of serpents at the corners of 
its roof. The porch is reached by a flight of wide, low steps ; 
the doorway itself, low and wide, deeply receding and dark- 
ened by the ample foliage of overhanging vines. The palace 
faces eastward upon a smooth open court-yard enclosed by 
a wall of stone with spacious gateway at the Right. The 
entrance to the court at the Left corner of the building is 
inconspicuous. At the main gateway there is artificial repre- 
sentation of wolves and leopards as if tame and serving as 
watchdogs. Behind the court-yard wall rise large trees throw- 
ing deep shadows in the twilight. A fountain, dragon-shaped, 
with circular basin, is centrally placed in the court, that is 
just at the Right of the porch steps. 

As the curtain rises, a humming sound as of a swiftly 
turned spinning-wheel is heard behind the scenes ; and 

(61 



THE FIRST ACT 



presently the music of Circe's song (the words of which are 
sung in a later Scene) is played upon flute and violin. The 
fountain is playing, and its spray, rising and falling inter- 
mittently, gleams with a golden light, occasionally changing 
to a faint blue, and then becoming golden again. Some of the 
serpentine gargoyles are seen to sway and writhe like living 
snakes. A large ape emerges from a small window above the 
porch, stands upon its roof at first erect like a man, then 
poses upon all fours at the edge, trying to look underneath 
into the doorway, and remains in this position. A glimpse 
also is caught of the Sivine-maiden, a tall, gaunt, witch-like 
figure robed in gray, trailing behind her a very long cowhide 
whip. Appearing suddenly from some place of concealment 
she passes furtively and silently, with long strides, across 
the Left corner and disappears behind the palace. 

II 

Interior. The banquet-hall of Circe's palace. A long, low 
apartment, clearly but not brilliantly illuminated by torch- 
wood burning upon cressets in the rear. Right and Left. The 
walls and ceiling of the room are of neutral tint, light shades, 
but nowhere white ; the decorations, of simple Grecian type. 
Two wide entrances at the rear afford glimpses of a back 
corridor dimly lighted ; between these doors a large spinning- 
wheel of fantastic pattern stands near the wall. On the 
Right a curtained opening leads to the boudoir of Circe ; 
and another door is situated further back on this side. On 
the Left, directly opposite the boudoir, is an entrance from 
an alcove or passage-way communicating with the porch ; 

[7] 



CIRCE 



in front of it a dais or platform, raised one step higher than 
the floor of the apartment. Near another door far back on 
the Left stands a large sideboard or bufiFet showing the usual 
garniture. Between the boudoir and the dais, thus centrally 
placed but a little forward, are two large, low tables nearly 
square, standing end to end, but far enough apart to allow 
free passage between them, and showing clearly the spinning- 
wheel behind. Three tall armchairs or thrones stand, one at 
the end of the table on the Left, in front of the dais ; another 
at the opposite end of the other table, by the entrance of the 
boudoir; the third at the left hand of the second throne, 
behind the table. There are numerous other small Greek 
chairs without backs. Each table is spread with a light 
brown cloth. Upon the table at the Right are several pieces 
of plate and a low spreading vase of flowers near its centre ; 
a flagon and goblets upon the other table. As the curtain rises 
the music ceases, but the humming of the wheel is continued. 
Circe is seen seated upon the throne at the head of the table 
by her boudoir. Her slender golden wand is carelessly thrown 
upon the table before her. Her black robe she has pushed 
away from her shoulders over the back of her chair ; but she 
wears her coronal of pearls confining massy black hair, with 
long, hght, pearly veil depending from the diadem behind. 
Her tunic is of canary-colored silk ; she wears crimson sandals, 
and a golden serpent bracelet encircles her left wrist. 
Philinna, a blonde, of beauty comparable to that of Circe 
herself, but of the opposite type, in dress and in all other 
respects forming a contrast to the Enchantress, stands behind 
the throne at her mistress' left hand. 

18] 



THE FIRST ACT 



The place of Thermia, a nymph of elegant figure and win- 
some expression, is behind the table on the Left, near the 
throne at its head by the dais. 

Myrto, who has dark hair like Circe, but is of small stature 
and not marked by especial beauty, sits facing the Enchant- 
ress by the spinning-wheel, which, as she swiftly turns it, 
gives forth the melodious hum that fills the air when the 
curtain rises. 

The predominant color of Philinna's dress is mauve ; of 
Thermia's, azure ; of Myrto's, dark green. Other nymphs 
are drest in light gauzy material, never pure white. All wear 
Grecian costume. 

As Circe turns toward her with a slight gesture, 
Myrto stops the wheel. 

Circe 
Hush, Myrto ; prithee stay 
Thy busy wheel awhile ; I fain would listen 
To the mere silence — if that be silence, when 
Naught save the light-wing'd evening zephyr 

breathes 
His soft sea-voices through the piny boughs 
And the broad vine-leaf tinkles at the porch. 
No footfalls patter now ; our thirsty questioners, 
After the sunset shadow falls, come not. 
Truly 't were vain, save by the day's bright beam, 
To seek my mansion on this bowery summit 

[91 



CIRCE 



Through tangled briery paths and copse-wood dim — 
For the first time. 

Philinna 

Thou knowest well, dear lady, 
No second coming, save in four-footed guise, 
Thy hand vouchsafes them. 

Circe 

Ay, not twice the cup 
For the same drinker need we pour. — And, Myrto, 
Remembered'st thou to cull the herbs I named, 
Wolf's-bane and hemlock and the rest ? 



Yes, lady. 



Myrto 

Circe 
And stored and sorted all.'^ 



Myrto 

By the full moon 
Each kind I pluck'd ; then, crosswise laid, I dried 
them 

[10 1 



THE FIRST ACT 



On the black adder-stone what hour no cloud 
The noonday welkin streak'd. 

Circe 

'T is well. Right soon 
I shall bruise more and brew their potions. 

[After a brief pause] Ah ! 

Myrto ; hast thou aught seen this season yet 
Of moly plant? 

Myrto 

No sprig, since we dug forth 
Those three and to their root put fire. 

Philinna 

O Circe, 
What mortal can know moly.^^ or, if found, 
Might guess that straightening salutary force 
Which its pale blossom suckles? 

Circe 

Little indeed 
Know they or seem to reck, who find my door, 

[111 



E3 CIRCE 



By the four winds or vague desire impell'd. 
Not of the herbs alone, wherewith I work 
Transforming magic, and of their antidotes 
Is saving knowledge to human sense denied ; 
But the mere man in equal measure lacks 
Perception of all that inner occult domain 
Which on my mystic vision rises clear 
And blends harmonious with material scenes. 
Therefore, what mortals know I know more surely, 
Crowning their wisdom with profounder lore. 
How oft do they who come, while at this board 
They swill and gloat, ere yet the damning cup 
I proffer, boast large deeds and prate of what 
They call experience — in the same breath imploring 
Guidance, which I with gracious hand might lend, 
Seem'd they but worthy. [Philinna nods assent.] 

Thermia 

Stands some one, Circe, 
At the porch door. 

Circe 

Throw open ; no mortal visitor 
Descends so deftly on us. 

112] 



THE FIRST ACT QS 



[The door at the Left is opened by Thermia, showing 
a golden-gleaming light in the passage-way behind 
it. Immediately Mercury enters^ standing as he 
first speaks upon the dais. His winged serpent- 
twined wand is brilliant with inlaid mother-of-pearl. 
Dewdrops glisten upon the wings of his cap and 
sandals. The mutual demeanor of Mercury and 
Circe is friendly, but not familiar. Neither makes 
show of deference toward the other. Mercury does 
not remove his cap. He takes no notice whatever of 
the nymphs.] 

Mercury 

All-potent Circe, 
Hail! 

Circe 

Hail to thee, sir messenger ! Be welcome ; 
Tarry and taste our cheer. 

[Mercury seats himself upon the throne at the head 
of the table near which he stands. Thermia takes his 
wand and lays it upon the table.] 

Circe 

The nectar, Thermia. 

113] 



CIRCE 



[Thermia serves him from the sideboard and remains 
standing in attendance.] 

Bring'st from the Olympian conclave, Mercury, 
Tidings to us? 

Mercury 
Nay, nay ; I do but pause 
On my mid-errand's flight a restful moment 
At thy fair island-dome. Weary sometime 
Falls even the airy stride of winged feet, 
When at a stern omnipotent behest 
They spurn the mountain's serried brow, plunge 

down, 
Skimming innumerable waves, and ride 
From land to land the brindled ocean's back. 
But, Mistress Circe, this enchanted isle, 
Topp'd by thy mansion, doth like a stepping-stone 
Betwixt the shores of dawn and vesper lie, 
At the convergent centre of all streams. 
What roving bark shall miss it? 

Circe 

Sooner or later 
'T is true each wanderer this way passes ; nor, 
Our gate once spied and hospitable song 
Heard trilling, turns he back. 

[14 1 



THE FIRST ACT 

Mercury 

I am reminded, 
Whereof I once made mention, again to speak. 
Fail not to pour thy strongest draught, fair Circe, 
When sage Ulysses heeds the languorous strain. 

Circe 
So said'st thou ; 1 recall it. And some potions 
Do stronger flow an hundred-fold than others. 

Mercury 
Even so one human counsel another o'er-tops 
By infinite measure. — But 't is time to speed 
And set a finish on this world-spanning errand. 

[Thermia hands Mercury his wand as he rises 
from the throne and steps upon the dais.] 

Now for the star-strewn roadways of the sky, 
By the dun cloud-edge, where fork'd lightnings fly. 
Farewell ! 

Circe 

Farewell, sir messenger ! [Exit Mercury.] 

Philinna 
[After a pause] Dear lady Circe, 
Wherefore for us at eve dost thou ne'er lift 

[15 1 



CIRCE 



Thy voice in sweetest song, like that whose spell 
Binds the doom'd callers at the moaning porch? 
So might we taste the charm and spare the bane. 

Circe 

O sit, Philinna, and mark you ! 

[Philinna seats herself in the throne near Circe. 
At the same time Thermia takes her seat upon one 
of the chairs at the other table, resting her left arm 
on the table.] 

Circe 

'T is not at will those tuneful notes upwelling 

Burst from this bosom's prison, when once the joy 

Of fierce enslaving mastery sets them free. 

I see not his approach who draweth nigh, 

Like the limed bird in cruel toils to stick. 

And whom the poison'd chalice straight transforms 

To brutal shape : — I do not see them come ; 

But by a sudden thrill inspired to sing. 

With a strange consciousness of quicken'd power, 

Then know I, and need not look. — Hath e'er one 

song 
Fail'd of response, Philinna? 

[16] 



ra THE FIRST ACT a 

Thermia 

Not one ; O, never ! 

Myrto 
How could it otherwise befall? 

Circe 

There be 
Others in whom by native hap are planted 
Some powers of vulgar sorcery : whom it profits 
On magic wheel to lash the skewer'd wryneck ; 
Who their unlovely droning measures vaunt 
To burst the clammy serpent in the mead, 
Or from her seat pull down the horned moon. 
But to their sordid craft my arts compare 
As sunbeams to a sputtering pitchy torch. 
When we the human prowler quell and tame, 
We work illumination ! 

Philinna 

Yet sometimes 
They shine with princely mien. Even as Mercury 
In face and stature were those two comely youths 
Thou once didst change to wolves. 

[17 1 



CIRCE 



Circe 

'T was their true shape ! 
The godhke figure hath to mankind been lent, 
Which they abuse to cloak an inner core 
Of bestial motive. Therefore it is to scatter 
Light over darkness, when my cunning drugs 
Make the shell match the kernel. No longer then. 
Once the true emblem on his visage stamp'd, 
Doth the pretender with mock daring flourish : 
Unmask'd, he slinks and cowers. — The most, 

indeed, 
Are of mere swinish habit ; and for them 
The pointed snout suffices and rough hide. 
But some — [With mock seriousness] Thou dream'st 

not, sweet Philinna, 
How cruelly those same youths, but for my spell. 
Had rent us both ! 

Myrto 
[Gravely] Ay, true ; didst thou not mark, 
Philinna, what hungry looks they bent upon 
The lady Circe, even while they drank? 'T was not 
The fragrant wine-cup drew them, but o'er its rim 
Her neck they scann'd and watch'd the hand and 
arm 

[18 1 



THE FIRST ACT 



That reach'd the potion. So had they gazed on thee, 
If Circe sat not by. 

Philinna 

Ah, Myrto ; how 
Could I the right herb choose and guide the beaker? 
Or wield the magic wand ! 

Thermia 
[Holding up her hands] O simple, simple ! 

Circe 

[Warmly] Thy beauty and my love for thee, 

Philinna, 
Are of a piece ; both do transcend the limit 
Of usual quality. For, without thee, I 
Should seem to hover in a stale vacant world ; 
Whilst thou, arm'd with no wand or secret drug, 
Unconscious and unskill'd, canst oft divert 
The most admiring, ardent, rapt regards 
Away from the famed Circe — deem'd forsooth 
To win by her sheer woman's charm not less 
Than by shrewd arts. It is perchance the reason 
Why thou art dear, because no studied guile 

[19] 



CIRCE 



Can in thy breast find lodgement. Oft we crave 
That in a friend which our own temper lacks ; 
And the two mingle to a more perfect being 
Than either by itself. 

[Laying her left hand upon Philinna's right arm] 

'T is pure simplicity 
Framed as a smiling goddess at my elbow. 

Myrto 
[Gravely] Dear lady Circe, may the gods preserve 

her, 
Shouldst thou in turn e'er fail at her right hand 
To sit with guardian thoughts. 

Thermia 

Nay, Myrto ! 
Stand we not all in like need of that shelter 
And sweet assurement which no other hand 
Than Circe's can dispense? 'T is the good spell 
Her bright superior spirit weaves round us, lends 
Fragrance and bloom to our sequester'd lives. 
What, but for that enrichment, would import 
Fair skies and shady bowers? — But these mock 
dangers 

[20 1 



THE FIRST ACT 



Are but the flounce and garnish of our pastime. 
Your mighty men I find more vain than vahant. 
Didst thou fear Mikkos, Myrto, in his former. 
Native habiHment? 

Myrto 
[Laughing] O Thermia, he was terrible ! 

Thermia 
And that sleek scrivener, who serves now as one 
Of our gate leopards — was it a peril when he, 
Before his lips touch'd the transforming potion, 
Offer'd me marriage? 

Philinna 
But what is marriage, Thermia? 

Thermia 
It is as if a clever craftsman built 
A cage round Circe and yourself, then lock'd 
Its door upon you both and flung the key 
Under the fountain. 

Philinna it] 

[Springing from her chair and drawing back behind 

[211 



CIRCE 



Holy Diana ! 
I should break out and fly like Circe's peacock 
Into the beech-tree by the spring. 

Circe 
[Laughing] O children, children ! 
How will ye all most learnedly discourse, 
Where ye know least? There lurks indeed small 

peril 
To your fair persons, but the danger hits 
Your unsophisticated silly souls. 
Some men there be, whose fervid, flattering words 
Would fluster and bedazzle you, till all 
This tranquil sweet companionship should vanish, 
As the light puffy thistle-down dispell'd, 
Leaving a weary lone unrest behind it. 
It is my swift preventing magic catches 
And tangles their approach. We are too quick 
For them ; nor shall they soon outspeed us. — Yet 
My brother, the great magician, told me once. 
That if a drug e'er fail'd me and work'd not 
For any cause its proper due effects, 
Then we stood liable to some counter-spell 
Of similar assignment. And he cited 
My cousin Medea's strange unhappy story. 

122] 



THE FIRST ACT 



[To Philinna, playfully] So ; 
When the poor Circe faints, Philinna, thou 
Wouldst fly off and desert her? 

Philinna 

O no ! not 
Without the cage. 

Circe 
[Laughing] No ; I am sure 
Whate'er befalls, Philinna will be faithful. 

Thermia 
[Seriously] She will indeed, my lady ! 

Circe 
Of faith and love there is no dearth among us, 
Though scant occasion offer which might put 
A true friend's temper to the test. For here 
The spirit of petty jangling sits aloof 
And common pastime smooths the tripping hours. 
Its spice is in the hazard. It were indeed 
A dull domain on Circe's isle, flow'd not 
The petulant human throng up to our door. 
For fail'd we to suppress them, we ourselves 
Might share that wearisome slow life which men 

[23 1 



CIRCE 



Owe to their fleeting, vain, unsteady loves. 
O verily they should thank us ! 

[Circe leans back in her chair, playing with the wand 
that lies on the table. Then straightening up and 
looking across the room she claps her hands twice. 
Directly the lute-girl Thrattis enters at the Left 
corner. She stands leaning against the sideboard and 
strikes chords upon her instrument as prelude.] 

Myrto 
O Circe, may Mikkos dance to-night? 

Circe 
Yes, child. — Poor Mikkos ! His dancing days were 

over 
When first he sought us and became our patient. 
Now they begin anew. 

[She signs to Thrattis, who begins a dancing tune. 
Other music is heard in accord with the lute. Phi- 
LiNNA and Thermia dance, not as partners, but 
singly, vyith Grecian or Turkish movement, passing 
round alternately between the tables and in front and 
behind them. Circe leans back and looks on with 
evident pleasure, beating time informally with her 

(24 1 



THE FIRST ACT 



wand. Immediately when the dancing begins, Myrto 
runs out at the Right centre for Mikkos ; but at the 
same time Mikkos darts in at the Left centre, drops 
into Myrto's seat, and begins to turn her wheel. 
The ape wears a handsome collar with about four 
feet of light brass chain hanging from it. Myrto 
follows laughing, seizes the chain, and pulling 
Mikkos to his feet the girl and the ape dance, con- 
fining themselves to the back part of the room. Myrto's 
dancing is similar to that of the other two nymphs, 
except that she does not display the same arm move- 
ments. Mikkos dances only as an ordinary trained 
simian might succeed in doing. Next, Graea the 
swine-maiden enters at the Right centre and joins in 
the performance. Her dancing, which she confines to 
the corner of the room opposite Thrattis, consists in 
snaky, gyratory movements, stooping and with long 
steps trailing her great whip slowly in circles upon 
the floor. — Presently Circe, drawing her black robe 
over her shoulders, still holding the wand, rises from 
her throne. The music ceases. Thrattis, Mikkos, 
and Graea disappear, and the three nymphs come 
to a standstill at about their usual places in the room . 



[25 



CIRCE 



Circe 
[To her nymphs] Thus merry our lives, through the 

whole endless round 
Of blithe days and the placid restful nights 
That top their radiance. How ye are blest, forsooth 
Ye cannot know, because that bliss transcends 
All ken and inquisition. It is some part 
Of the vast natural world instill'd and moulded 
In your fair forms divine, whereto small fleck 
Of human taint hath fallen ; but an ethereal 
Kinship of cloud and fountain and wild wood 
Thrills the translucent ichor in your veins. 
O sweet immortal sisterhood ! 

Thermia 

A mighty willow guards the meadow's brink. 
Where daisies shine and finches pause to drink : 
Each year its lissome branches droop anew. 
And on the straightest, smoothest shoot I grew. 

Myrto 
Deep in the forest shade black water ran : 
Beneath its tide my babyhood began ; 
And while for strength these tiny knees did lack, 
A bullfrog bore me on his bright green back. 

[26 1 



IBS THE FIRST ACT 



Philinna 
Down a sheer sunny cliff wild waters whirl 
In tinted gleams of amethyst and pearl : 
And where that dangling riband dots the sky, 
From one soft gauzy filament sprang I. 

[The curtains of Circe's bower are drawn away, 
revealing some part of its interior and a nymph 
standing on either side. Circe moves slowly back- 
ward to the bower entrance; and her three nymphs 
move backward toward the several exits.] 

Circe 
[To the audience] There is a sleep that hath no 

need of dreams : 
When of each waking hour the passage seems 
A bird-flight under lovelier skies than those 
Which dreamland fancy to the slumberer shows. 

[The music of Circe's song is again heard, and the 
drop-curtain falls while all are just disappearing. 
Philinna goes out at Right 2; Thermia at Left 2; 
Myrto at Left centre.] 



27 



CIRCE 



III 

A camp by the seashore just before sunrise. The ground 
rises at the back and Right, rough with shrubbery and rocks. 
A galley of antique build has been drawn upon the sand 
crosswase at the Left and there are glimpses of the sea on 
this side. The mast has been unstepped and a few long oars 
lean against the side of the vessel. There are other signs of a 
recent disembarcation. Articles of nautical and warlike use 
lie on the ground or hang upon bushes and rocks ; wine-jars, 
cups, plates, etc. have been deposited. The forms of a nu- 
merous company of men are seen sleeping on the ground, 
wrapped in their blankets, here and there near the ship. — 
In the foreground at the Right centre a fire of small sticks is 
beginning to burn under tripod and kettle. Theron, the 
cook, is seen seated on the ground near the fire, washing 
strips of meat for roasting. From the low branch of a tree 
near him hangs the well stripped carcass of a deer, the hide 
and the head bearing large antlers in full view near by. 
Elpenor, the cook's helper, is at work trying to make the 
fire burn. 

Theron 
Scratch together another stick or two of wood, 
youngster. 

[Enter Glaucus at Right with a jar of water which 
he sets down near Theron.] 

That will do for water, Glauc. Take a hand now 
and help the lad blow the fire a bit. 

[28] 



THE FIRST ACT 



Glaucus 

So I will, though I be a trifle blown myself, tramp- 
ing up and down to that spring. 

Theron 

That 's where the commander pinked the deer 
yesterday, eh? 

Glaucus 

Ay, ay ; the old man has n't forgotten how to let 
slip an arrow since we became water-dogs, for 
certain. 

Theron 

'T was a crack piece of venison he fetched in and 
no mistake ! There 's a strip or two left for 
breakfast ; but I reckon we '11 have to make a 
soup of the hide for dinner — that is if other 
game does n't turn up. [He lays pieces of meat 
spitted over the coals.] 

Glaucus 

The soup '11 do them. They took solid meat enough 
aboard yesterday to last for a week's voyage. 

[29 1 



CIRCE 



Elpenor 

When I saw them eating, it made me think of 

father feeding the hogs up in Cephallenia. 

Glaucus 
They 're grunting yet. Just hear the beggars snore ! 
And we turned in before sunset too. 

Theron 
The Pramnian 's responsible for that : we tapped 
four jars. It 's the same as keeled over that 
beastly hulk of a Cyclops. 

Elpenor 
The commander took a mighty round swig him- 
self ; I saw him. 

Glaucus 
Trust him for keeping his head level. Besides, he 
can carry more of the rosy than any three of us. 

Theron 
Pass over those barley spats, boy — ah ! you 've 
got them too wet, you monkey. — Say, Glauc, 
how would you like to see such a thing as a 
woman again, eh? [Theron grins and nudges 
Glaucus' knee with his elbow.] 

[30] 



THE FIRST ACT 



Glaucus 
Well, you 're right ; it is a long time since. 

Elpenor 
Was n't that a woman you saw at the last landing- 
place? — there where they smashed all the 
ships we had but this one. 

Theron 
What ! — the giant's daughter? Bless you, boy, 
that was a waddling mountain, not a woman ! 

Glaucus 
You might throw your arms round her waist 
twice, Elpy, and never touch the tips of your 
fingers. 

Theron 
By the powers, she was a hogshead to tackle ; ha, ha ! 

Glaucus 

If there be female inhabitants of this prickly 

country, it 's to be hoped they 're not built 

after that pattern. But everything here wears 

horns, so far. [He taps the antlers of the stag.] 

[311 



CIRCE 



Theron 
Well, we 're nigh about ready. Set those plates 
round in just a little order. Call 'em up, Elp ! 
Take my knife here and hammer on that 
shield hanging by the tree. The sun '11 be on 
us shortly. One more jar of water, Glaucus. 
[Exit Glaucus.] 

Elpenor 
[Pounding on the metallic shield] Ding, dong ! 
Cling, clang ! Breakfast ! Get up ! Get up ! 
Breakfast ! Ding, dong ! Cling, clang ! 

[The men rise one after another from their beds 
on the ground and adjust their garments, which 
look stained and weather-worn. Glaucus re- 
enters and pours water into several basins for 
the men to wash their hands. They gradually 
find seats on the ground near the fire and begin 
to eat, the cook and his assistant serving them 
informally. The conversation begins while they 
are dressing and getting ready, before they sit.] 

Phorbas 
[Looking around him suspiciously] I wonder on 
which side the sun rises in this blessed country. 

[32] 



SSi THE FIRST ACT 



Philemon 

On the east side, maybe ; leastwise it ought to come 
up opposite to where it went down yesterday. 

Phorbas 

Well, who remembers where that was? Split me if 
I do! 

Glaucus 

Avast there ! the sun '11 peep over in a jiffy — by 
the spring yonder. [He turns his thumb back- 
ward to the Right.] 

Phorbas 
All the same we don't any of us know where we are. 

Theron 

We 're supposed to be at the breakfast table now, 
lads. Fall to if you 've got any appetite left 
over from yesterday ! 

Xenias 

We 've got more appetite left over than you have 
chops, cook. 

[33 1 



CIRCE 



Theron 
Ay, every chop 's a sparerib this morning — except 
a few choice cuts here for the commander and 
the mate. They 're done now. 

[He takes the meat from the fire into a platter.] 

Here, young man ; take 'em over to him round 
the other side of the ship. 

Elpenor 
[As he goes out] We 're going to have soup for 
dinner. [He disappears behind the vessel.] 

Philemon 

Look here, Theron ; did you put the charcoal in 

these barley cakes before baking or after? 

Glaucus 
Pooh, pooh ! Never mind the grit, man ; it 's an 
aid to digestion. We 're lucky enough to have 
groats aboard, anyway. 

Phorbas 
We 're lucky to be alive ! By Apollo, how I shiver 
when I think of that ^Eolian duffer and the 
cursed wind-bags he palmed off on us ! 

[34 1 



THE FIRST ACT 



Xenias 

'T was worse than a hurricane on the wrong 
quarter when they blew up — took us straight 
back to the old boy himself. 

Philemon 

He was a windy humbug ! You 'd have thought, to 
hear him talk, we 'd be back home in Ithaca 
inside of twenty -four hours. 

Phorbas 

And now we 're only here! Another cannibal island, 
I '11 bet my pile ! Ye gods ! I would n't go up 
ten rods from the shore for a gold mine. 

Theron 

Well, the commander took a little walk yesterday 
and nobody ate him up. He did n't make much 
of a report as to what he saw ; but I 've a 
notion he '11 say something about it to-day. 

Glaucus 
Sh — here he comes now ! Mind your taps, men ! 

( 35 1 



CIRCE 



[Eriter Ulysses and Eurylochus at the Left from 
behind the ship. The men finishing their meal 
salute without rising and arrange themselves 
comfortably and informally on the ground in a 
sort of circle looking toward Ulysses in the 
centre. Elpenor re-enters behind the two and 
sits down with the others. Eurylochus also 
seats himself upon the ground at the right hand 
of Ulysses. In appearance the mate is dis- 
tinguished from the crew mainly by ivearing 
fresher and less weather-beaten garments. Ulys- 
ses wears a helmet and carries his sword and 
baldric in his hand. He throws the weapon upon 
the ground, and as he begins to speak takes off 
his helmet, holding it swinging by its strap in 
his left hand while he stands and speaks. The 
rays of the rising sun now strike over the bank 
behind him.] 

Ulysses 
Good morrow, men ! How sped the night? 

Several Voices 
O, hearty, hearty ! 

[36 1 



THE FIRST ACT 



EURYLOCHUS 

They had a bout to sleep on, you remember, sir. 

Ulysses 

That was high festival — too rare a hap ! 
'T was sipping of the rest ye needed sore ; 
But now there 's toil in prospect. 

Philemon 
We thought you might tell us, sir, what the 
prospect showed when you stepped out yester- 
day and got the deer. 

Phorbas 
We 're hoping to sail away from here directly. 

Ulysses 
Of sail and oar appears an end not yet. 
Brave comrades, — ye sad fortune-favor'd few, 
Poor relic of that once gallant troop which sat 
High on three-hundred thwarts ; when each proud 

keel, 
Cleaving a homeward furrow, swept gaily past 
Familiar beacons ; and from known crag and scaur 

[37 1 



CIRCE 



Triumphal friendly greetings echoed loud, 
That drop like honey in victorious ears. 
Not long their cadence linger'd ; but ye know 
What flouts of whirlwind and black sulphurous 

cloud, 
Wreck-witness'd warrants of Neptunian ire, 
Whelm'd some with death and the scant remnant 

usher'd 
Into these strange, uncanny, nameless seas. 
And now from wave to wave your weary arms 
Drive the lone pinnace, this frail shell of hope, 
With mingled dread and homesick yearning 

freighted. 

[As Ulysses pauses^ some of the men, all of ivhom are 
looking to him intently, shake their heads or rock 
themselves to and fro, and faint groans are heard.] 

But cheer, brave shipmates ; cheer ! 

Not boundless stretch these watery wastes, but 

still 
Shines somewhere a vine-clad slope and pebbly 

cove, 
The fair home-harbor pictured in your dreams. 

[The men give utterance to hud sighs and groans.] 

[38 1 



THE FIRST ACT 



Somewhere it sparkles yet ; but whether a ray 

Of yonder cHmbing sun illumed its borders 

Ere he warm'd us, or by the western rim 

Of darkling eve our cherish'd haven lies, 

We know^ not. In ourselves, thus mazed and wilder'd 

By circular driftings and strange gruesome sights, 

There springs no source of judgment, whence to 

draw 
Some pilotage and index of true course. 
Yet on these wild inhospitable shores 
Beings we have encounter'd — and not all 
Of baleful or ungracious mood — who hold 
Rare store of guiding knowledge. — Should we not 
Press with glad feet even now our native soil, 
If ye, unhappy men, had spared to loose 
The contrary winds great iEolus did tie down 
To assure our safety? 

[The men manifest great perturbation; some gestic- 
ulating and shaking their heads; others rising to their 
knees and striking themselves. Mutterings and faint 
outcries escape them.] 

EURYLOCHUS 

[Timidly; rising to his feet] You failed to tell them, 
sir, what was in the bags. 

139] 



CIRCE 



Ulysses 
[Sternly] I fail'd first to remember 
What slender stock of prudence or just restraint 
Your wits preserve. So, while I slept, ye wrought 
Mischief beyond repair. It was thy watch, 
Eurylochus ; dost recall it? 

EURYLOCHUS 

Yes, sir, it was my company on duty then. 

Ulysses 
Draw off thy men ; let them assemble apart. 

[At a sign from Eurylochus men to the number of 
one-half the crew arise and group themselves around 
him on the Right. The rest remain seated iiearer 
Ulysses. Eurylochus' company includes Glaucus, 
Theron, Elpenor, and Phorbas.] 

Ulysses 
[To all as before] I repeat, then. 
There dwell in these weird regions spirits — some 

few, 
Mighty yet not malevolent, and endued 
With sapient skill and far discernment. Nor 
Save by experience of them may we hope 

[40] 



THE FIRST ACT 



To win the instructions craved. Here yesterday 
From the bare peak whereto I clomb, the view 
Of a round isle lay open ; and at the point 
Where these upwinding brambly folds converge 
I saw faint-coiling smoke-wreaths, the sure sign 
Of dwellers. 

[All of the men are visibly disturbed and give increased 
and anxious attention.] 

It behooves us now to prove 
Their case and disposition. But whether it suits 
Rather that I conduct my party thither 
For the grave query, or Eurylochus his, 
Allotment shall decide. 

[Sensation among his hearers] 

Ofttimes the hand 
Of Fortune guides a venturous essay fitter 
Than human arbitration. Mark, then, Eurylochus, 
My lot and thine. 

[Eurylochus with assistance from others finds upon 
the beach two small flat stones. These he scratches with 
his dagger, marking one with a V, the other with an E.] 

Shake now the sherds, good Glaucus. 

[41] 



CIRCE 



[As he speaks Ulysses passes the helmet which he has 
hitherto held in his left hand to Glaucus. The two 
lots are thrown into the helmet; and Glaucus, stand- 
ing in an open space and watched with intense 
expectation by all present, shakes it violently with a 
circular movement until one of the lots flies out and 
falls to the ground. The men strain their eyes toward 
the stone as it is picked up by Glaucus.] 

Ulysses 
Well, what decision? 

Glaucus 
[Holding up the stone] It 's Eurylochus, sir, his mark. 

[The announcement produces various effects upon the 
men. The party of Ulysses, seated upon the ground, 
strive not to show too plainly their sense of relief; while 
the standing company of Eurylochus are more 
openly affected. Phorbas in particular is in a highly 
nervous state, glancing now toward the hill, now 
toward the water. A few other timid ones in the same 
party demean themselves similarly.] 

Ulysses 
[To Eurylochus] Enough ; make ready directly, 
and proceed with reasonable haste. 

[421 



THE FIRST ACT 



[The mates company move depart and make 'prepara- 
tions, helped to some extent by the others. There is 
lively motion in both groups. They gather up things 
needfid for an expedition, spears, staves, water- 
flasks, etc. Theron, a portly figure, does not change 
his cook's garb, but buckles on a very broad belt with 
hanging straps, and whets his butcher's cleaver with 
a stone. Shortly they are ready to start.] 

EURYLOCHUS 

My mission is, sir ? 

Ulysses 

To announce, if those thou haply find'st wear not 

Sinister aspect, our good-will and greeting ; 

And the right winds for homeward voyage inquire. 

EURYLOCHUS 

Very well, sir. — Fall in, lads ! 

[EuRYLOCHUs' followers draw closer to their leader, 
apart from the others. All are serious. Individuals 
take leave of one another here and there ivifh hand- 
shaking, etc.] 

[43] 



Oa CIRCE |g| 

Ulysses 

The sign show'd near the summit. Your ascent, 
Thorny perchance and steep, will prove not long ; 
The questioning, easy. 

Xenias 

[Seriously] Have an eye to Theron, Glaucus ; let 
him not be too forward with that meat-knife 
of his ! 

Elpenor 

[Taking hold of a strap at Theron's belt] I shall 
hold him back. 

Ulysses 

Full oft a forward mood and hardy daring 
Is of prime merit ; circumstance will teach 
How far to temper zeal with slow discretion. 
Farewell ! 

EURYLOCHUS 

Farewell, sir ! — Forward, men ! 

Several Voices on Both Sides 
Farewell ! adieu ! luck, luck ! 



44 



THE FIRST ACT tSI 



[The mate's company go out at the Right and upward. 
EuRYLOCHUS himself is abreast of the foremost on 
their left. The vanguard consists of Glaucus, 
Theron {cleaver in hand) , and Elpenor (a fragile, 
attenuated figure) behind the cook, holding at his 
belt. Phorbas and other timid ones bring up the 
rear. The drop-curtain falls as they move off while 
the rest watch them and wave their hands to them.] 



45 



CIRCE 



IV 

The same as Scene I. The front of Circe's palace. No music 
or other sound is heard when the curtain rises. The fountain 
plays as before. — Enter at the Right by the main gateway 
EuRYLOCHUS and his party, the men grouped similarly as 
at the close of the last scene, but in the reverse order. In 
advance are Phorbas and the other timid ones ; they enter 
hurriedly, casting glances of alarm behind them. The rest 
of the party immediately follow ; Eurylochus, Glaucus, 
and Theron last. Elpenor is in front of Theron, who 
pushes him forward. The whole company quickly come to a 
standstill in a single close group with considerable space 
between them and the steps of the porch. They scan the 
building and its environs with looks of wonder, especially 
fascinated by the fountain with its changing hues. — Eury- 
lochus stands apart from the rest, his demeanor indicating 
hesitation and perplexity. While the others are talking he 
walks slowly to and fro, occasionally pausing and scanning 
suspiciously the various features of the scene. 

Theron 
It 's a rum go so far ! eh, Glaucus? 

Glaucus 
[Shrugging his shoulders] Rum 's the word ! An 
outpost of tame tigers ! It beats anything 
we Ve walked into yet. Cyclops' cave was n't 
a circumstance. 

[46] 



THE FIRST ACT 



Theron 
I had a notion to crack the skull of that overgrown 
wolf-cub when he landed his dirty paws on my 
shoulders. But he looked sort o' gentle like, 
and besides I thought the old chap who owns 
the menagerie might take a miff — whoever he is. 

Glaucus 

It 's some retired show-man or prize-fighter, I 
reckon. 

Theron 

He 's got a blue devil penned up in his fountain, 
sure ! Just look at that, old man ; hock first, 
and blue vitriol at the tail end of it ! There 's 
bitters for you with a vengeance ! — Blast me, 
but I 'm thirsty as an oyster, whacking a way 
up through that pesky brush-wood ! If there 's 
a chance to wet our whistles inside the house 
it '11 be worth the dog-show twice over. 

Phorbas 

I tell you it '11 pay to be cautious about the inside. 

Ugh ! it did make my flesh creep, crossing 

that cordon of wild-cats ! There 's no knowing 

what we '11 put our foot on if we go farther. 

[47 1 



CIRCE 



Elpenor 
I put my foot on a snake. 

Glaucus 
They put an architect to work here that saw 
snakes, anyhow. Take a look at those water- 
spouts, boys ! [Pointing to the gargoyles] 

EURYLOCHUS 

[Approaching the group] Well, men ; what 's the 
next step.^ The commander said go ahead if 
the people were n't unfriendly. The wild beasts 
out there were friendly enough, you might 
say ; but there 's an uncanny look to it all. 

Theron 
I vote to go ahead and knock up the owner. If he 's 
no worse than his own whelps we can stand 
it ; — especially if he stands for the drinks. 

Glaucus 

There 's no two-legged craft within hail outside — 

nothing but four-footed gentry out here. 

EuRYLOCHUS 

We might mount the stairs, then, cautiously, and 

[48] 



THE FIRST ACT 



see how things look under the doorway 
yonder. [Shaking his head] But I fear enchant- 
ment. 

[As they approach the steps the hum of the 
spinning-wheel begins to be heard. The men 
pause again, and look at each other a moment in 
silence, Eurylochus starts at the sound of the 
wheel, his features betraying heightened anxiety.] 

Theron 
[Slapping Glaucus on the shoulder] God-a-mercy, 
it 's womankind after all, Glauc ! Come on ! 
Ha, ha ! 

Elpenor 
Maybe it 's a mountain. 

[They all move toward the steps again. Theron, with 
Elpenor holding to his belt, and Glaucus are now 
in advance; Eurylochus is at one side; Phorbas 
and others are behind. As the first man sets foot on 
the steps the wheel stops humming and faint music 
strikes up as prelude to Circe's song. Immediately 
a clear soprano voice is heard behind the scenes sing- 
ing the air, the chorus of the song being performed by 
a quartette of women's voices. The hearers are sen- 

[49 



CIRCE 



sibly affected, showing their feelings by appropriate 
pantomime as they alternately pause and mount 
slowly higher and higher upon the stairs. Eurylochus 
alone exhibits symptoms of horror and repulsion; the 
others seem to be charmed and lured on by the song. 
All of thern except the leader are gathered together 
upon the porch close to the doorway when the last 
stanza is sung.] 

The Song of Circe 

Ah, who ! — ah, who ! 
Who would dwell longer there bis 
In a rude world of care, 

Of toil and care ! 
They only live, who hear 
My song and taste my cheer — 

Who my life share. bis 

Ah, who ! — ah, who 
Would toil and tarry there ! 

(Chorus) 

They only live, who hear 
Our song and taste our cheer — 

Who our life share. bis 

Ah, who ! — ah, who 
Would toil and tarry there ! 

[50] 



B9 THE FIRST ACT BS 

II 

I know — I know 
Where bubbling waters iOiow ; 
Where shadowy willows sway 
And wood nymphs hide and play 

In my round isle. 
I know which clustering vine 
Spirts out the sweetest wine. 

Who would not while 

Swift hours away ! 

Ah, who ! — ah, who ! 
In my round bowery isle ! 

{Chorus) 

We know — we know which vine 
Spirts out the sweetest wine. 

Who would not while 

Swift hours away ! 

Ah, who ! — ah, who ! 
In our round bowery isle ! 



51 



CIRCE 



III 

I know — I know 
What makes the wood-dove moan bis 
In the dark coppice lone ; 

I know the cure. 
When floats the owlet's cry, 
Her quavering lullaby, 

W' ho ! — ah, who ! 
While night winds sigh, 
W^ho would not quaff the cure ! 

Ah, who ! — ah, who ! 

(Chorus) 
We know, we know the cure. 
When floats the owlet's cry, 
Her quavering lullaby. 

Who ! — ah, who ! 
While night winds sigh. 
Who would not quaff the cure ! 

Ah, who ! — ah, who ! 

Glaucus 
[Loudly, in a musical tone] Hola ! — hola ! 

[Directly upon the utterance of this call the low, 
shaded recess of the doonvay, which was dark before, 

[52] 



THE FIRST ACT 



grows bright with the same golden radiance that had 
shone intermittently upon the fountain; and the 
throng of visitors, excepting their leader, press swiftly 
forward and disappear through the opening. Again 
immediately the light in the doorway changes to blue, 
with electrical sparks. Eurylochus, who is directing 
his gaze toward the opening, shrinks back in alarm; 
and at the same moment the spray of the fountain 
becomes blue and remains of that color. Descending 
to a lower stair Eurylochus peers under the door- 
way, listening intently. No sound is heard. Then, 
his attention being drawn to the sombre hue of the 
fountain, while he is looking away from the entrance, 
a large serpent lets down its coils from the roof of the 
porch; and as the man turns again toward the 
entrance he is confronted with its wide-open jaivs, 
forked tongue, and glittering eyes. As he retreats 
precipitately from the stairs the serpent draws itself 
up out of sight. Eurylochus stops oiice more in the 
foreground to watch and listen for some sign of his 
men within the palace; but as he turns toward the 
building, the head of a wolf with glowing eyes is 
protruded from a clump of shrubbery. Upon en- 
countering this final apparition he flees in conster- 
nation from the scene.] 

!53] 



CIRCE 



V 

The Seashore again. The curtain rising discovers the men 
left behind at the camp sitting irregularly grouped near the 
fire-place. Ulysses stands apart from them by the ship, 
busied in inspecting his arms, the spear, bow, and sword, 
which hang near or lean against the vessel. When he un- 
sheathes and sheathes the sword to examine it while his 
men are talking it is seen to have a brightly polished, rather 
broad, but not heavy blade. Most of the time he stands 
with face turned toward the water, liis back to the Right. 

First Sailor 

Look here, lads ; we can't wait till noon for a bite ! 
The commander ordered breakfast so rattling 
early this morning I 've got a brand-new 
appetite already. 

Xenias 

Well, take a nibble on that pile of Theron's char- 
coal cakes left over. They need a good appetite 
to make 'em slip down. 

First Sailor 

Maybe the mate or Glaucus '11 fetch in another 
stag or a wild goat on their way back. 

[54] 



THE FIRST ACT 



Second Sailor 

A wild goose more like ; I wonder how far they 've 
got anyway. 

Philemon 

They ought to turn up before noon. The com- 
mander said they might get up there and 
return in a couple of hours, as he judged — 
that is, if they scratched gravel lively. 

Xenias 

They 've got Theron with 'em, remember ; he 
can't pass between two trees when they grow 
too near together. 

First Sailor 

No, but he can clear a path with his cleaver for 
two men — him and Elpy spindle-shanks. 

Second Sailor 

[In undertone] By the way, the commander 's 
pretty busy over there with his own cutlery. 
I wonder what he expects next. 

[55] 



CIRCE 



Philemon 
He expects to be ready, whatever comes. You 
don't catch him napping. Besides, who wants 
a speck of rust on a hanger Hke that? The 
war 's an old story now ; and this salt air 's 
the devil's own invention to make a blade 
stick to the scabbard. 

Xenias 
'T was a pity he could n't draw it on that Cyclops 
hog. But if we 'd let the blood out of him it 
would n't have let us out of his pesky cave 
with a giant's tomb-stone clapped up to the 
door ! — [Whistling low as he looks up. Xenias 
sits facing the Right.] Whew ! — What 's in the 
wind now? 

[All turn quickly toward the point indicated by 
the speaker, not excepting Ulysses, whose 
attention has been attracted by the whistle. At 
the Right from above Eurylochus enters sloioly 
and hesitatingly, looking pale and haggard, his 
clothing torn and disordered by the brambles. 
Observing that all eyes are directed upon him he 
stops as if afraid to approach the company. 

[56 1 



THE FIRST ACT 



Most of the men rise to their feet and move 
toward him.] 

Several Voices 
Hi ! hi ! — what 's the good word? — News, news? 
Where's Glauc? [Eurylochus responds only 
with deprecatory gestures.] 

Ulysses 
What? ho, Eurylochus ! Hast tidings? Why alone? 
What ails thee, mate? Speak out ; tell us thy 
story ! 

\With gestures of dismay Eurylochus moves 
nearer to Ulysses, hut does not speak. Ulysses 
regards him with an expression of deep concern. 
The other men gather more closely round the pair.] 

Xenias 
Wake up, man ! What 's in your eye? We 're here 
to help ; cheer up ! 

Philemon 
[Patting Eurylochus on the shoulder] Out with it ; 
out with it ! — Go ahead ; palaver ! 

157 1 



CIRCE 



Xenias 
Open up, old fellow. You 're not dead, anyway. 
We 're used to funerals by this time. [Eury- 
LOCHUS remains in his despairing attitude and 
is still unable to speak.] 

Ulysses 
[Severely; taking a step nearer to Eurylochus, 
while the men fall back slightly.] 

Eurylochus, I enjoin you and command 

To conquer this o'er-mastering mute despair. 

Deliver straightway the account we crave 

Of your commission and make known why thus 

Alone and fraught with visible woe thou comest. — 

Where are they? Speak ! — 

Eurylochus 
[With effort; after further hesitation.] 

Noble Ulysses, we did most duly follow 
Thy charge and indication. And when with sharp 
Stretches of toilsome clambering we drew nigh 
This shaggy island's summit, where the ground 
Sloped smoother, as these rude prickly folds gave 
way 

[58 1 



@ THE FIRST ACT SS 

To a tall grove of sombre trees which thrust 
Their welcome shadows against the mounting sun, — 
There 'twixt the spectral boles our upward glance 
Fell on a portly mansion's shimmering sides. 
But first, as we clomb higher, a court-yard wall 
Barr'd, though with open portals, our approach. 
For at its mouth a glowering throng, Ulysses, 
Of pards and grisly wolves sat by ; not wild, 
But of a tameness stranger and more awful 
Than fierce beasts' native temper — 't was sure sign, 
And not the last, of foul enchantment. These 
Strove not to tear and rend us, but were fain 
Like petted dogs to fawn, wagging long tails 
And monstrous paws on lap or shoulders throwing ; 
While in their eyes sad looks, half human, seem'd 
To deprecate and warn. But we press'd on, 
Heeding thy charge, Ulysses, to mark well 
The human dwellers' aspect and of them 
Inquire, proved they not unbenign or harsh. 
Dwellers indeed we saw not ; but the whole pile, 
As near its door we stood, did reek and rumble 
With devilish witchery. Scaly serpents writhed 
At every coigne ; faces with fiery eyeballs 
Peer'd out amid the foliage ; and o'er all 
Weird flashes leapt of lurid sulphurous flame. 

[59 1 



CIRCE 



Yet that which most profoundly stirr'd my doubts 
And dark suspicions, was the unearthly song, 
With languorous music mixt, that issued forth 
To charm and tempt us with seductive spell. 
Myself shrank back when on my ear that strain 
Of woman's guile or witch's magic struck. 
Not so the rest, Ulysses, — our lost comrades ; 
But the song bound and pull'd them ; nor could I 
Stem their mad folly. One spoke forth and call'd ; 
And as the doors swang wider all were swept 
Under the hellish gap ; which, closing, swallow'd 
Like an engulfing whirlpool the doom'd crew. 
For though, as the song ceased, I watch 'd and 

waited 
Long time for tidings or some sign, none came : 
Naught but a dismal silence and increase 
Of snaky menace and blue infernal gleams ! 

[Immediately upon the conclusion of Eurylochus' 
narrative Ulysses, who has listened intently, reaches 
for his sword near by; takes a quick look at the blade 
as he draws it partly out and then pushes it back 
into the scabbard; slings the weapon over his shoulder, 
puts on his helmet, and then turns to Eurylochus 
again. The latter exhibits fresh dismay at seeing 

[60] 



THE FIRST ACT 



Ulysses thus arm himself. The other men also are 
visibly ajfected by their commander s movements.] 

Ulysses 
So then thou knowest the way, Eurylochus : 
Lead on forthwith by the same path ; show nie 
The spot where thou didst leave them. 

Eurylochus 
[Falling at the feet 0/ Ulysses and clasping his knees] 

Not thither, great Ulysses ! Take me not thither ! 
Thyself will ne'er return, I know right well. 
It is the road to death or to some state 
Of hideous, vile bewitchment worse than death. 
Thou canst not rescue them ! What power hath man 
To battle with foul uncanny spirits i^ — Nay, 
This isle is haunted. Let us fly ; we are 
Thus many left alive. To ship and fly ! 

Ulysses 
[Scornfully] Eurylochus, 't is thy privilege ; thou 

art free 
To nurse thy safety, tarrying by the ship. 
On me a duty rests ; my course lies clear : 
My comrades' fate I go to prove. 

[611 



CIRCE 



[EuRYLOCHus retreats and cowers while Ulysses 
speaks, at the same time gradually rising to a stand- 
ing posture with his face toward the speaker. He does 
not join the group of the other men. These have their 
eyes fixed on the commander, some of them moving 
anxiously toward him. With his last words Ulysses 
stai'ts to go out at the Right. Eurylochus turns away 
and sits upon a stone near the ship and the water 
at the Left, covering his face.] 

Philemon 
May we not, sir, accompany you as guard 
Or help at hazard? 

Ulysses 
Nay, good men ; remain 
And guard the vessel. My errand 's of espial 
And wary circumspection : meet for one ; 
For more, unsuited. I shall not slip. Farewell ! 

Several Voices 
Farewell ! farewell, sir ! 

[The curtain falls as Ulysses disappears, while the 
men stand following his footsteps with their eyes.] 

[02] 



THE FIRST ACT 



VI 

The same as Scene II. Circe's banquet-hall. — As the 
curtain rises the party who entered the palace at the close 
of Scene IV are shown seated at the table on the Left, while 
Thermia and other nymphs serve them with food and wine. 
The cups are filled by pouring from tall slender pitchers of 
silver, and these in turn by dipping the wine with ladles 
from the punch-bowl on the sideboard. The Enchantress 
and her companions are in their usual places. Myrto turns 
her wheel slowly and intermittently without noticeable 
sound. Circe, seated as before at the head of the table on 
the Right, wears the same dress as in Scene II, but her 
black robe is not thrown off. The wand lies upon the table 
near her right hand, neither carelessly nor conspicuously 
placed. The throne at her left hand, behind which Philinna 
stands, is occupied by Mikkos, who wears a brightly polished 
collar. 

The guests are all at the table farthest from Circe. The 
throne at its head, opposite her throne, is occupied by 
Elpenor. At his left, near the corner of the table, sits 
Phorbas, partaking freely of the banquet, but glancing 
nervously, now toward Mikkos and now toward the door 
behind the dais where they had entered. At the left of 
Phorbas sit some feasters with their backs to the audience. 
On the other side of the table, facing the audience, are 
Theron the cook (at Elpenor's right) wearing his cap ; 
Glaucus (the farthest in the direction toward Mikkos) ; 
and other men between Theron and Glaucus. 

[63 1 



IS CIRCE @ 

It is near the close of the entertainment. Appearances indi- 
cate that the banqueters have begun to feel the effects of 
the wine that is still poured freely. They are also partly 
dazed and partly exhilarated by the presence of the Enchant- 
ress and her elegant nymphs. The symptoms of intoxication 
and bewilderment on the part of the men become by degrees 
more manifest as the conversation proceeds. Glaucus 
preserves his dignity rather better than his companions ; 
but he seems fascinated by Circe, to whom he is the nearest 
in his position at table ; and he does not refrain from drink- 
ing copiously, nor show due caution or a disposition to 
remember the details of the mission with which Eurylochus 
had been entrusted. 

Circe 

[After a pause] 

Ye do full justice, strangers and kind guests, 
To this our welcome and the cheer we spread. 
'T is right. Go on ; and so with act sincere, 
Not by the hollow word, those virtues prove 
Which to my bounty I would fain impute. 
And truly, until a guest hath quell'd the pangs 
Of sharp importunate hunger, it were ungracious 
To crave of him accounts or ply his ear 
With curious question. — I am well pleased to wait 
Upon your silence keeping even pace 

[64 1 



THE FIRST ACT 



With appetite. — Ye have not sat of late, 
I judge, at flowing boards. 

Elpenor 
[Loudly] We had roast deer yesterday. 

Theron 
[Flourishing his fork] Done to a turn ! 

Circe 
Ah ! — did ye then venture 
To hunt and slay the creatures that frequent 
My island park? It were no jest to play 
The involuntary cannibal ! 

[Some of the men are seen to be startled by this remark.] 

Follow'd perchance 
Unusual visions in the wake of the feast? 

Phorbas 
Yes, yes ! my sleep ran ghostly ; but I thought 
'T was a mere nightmare. 

Elpenor 

I thought I saw a horse! 

[65] 



eg CIRCE 



Circe 
Of our four-footed denizens we note 
Two sorts : one of original beastly shape ; 
Another, to which the brutal guise hath fallen 
As fit encasement of their human habits. 
And these two kinds, one from the other with sure 
Discrimination to distinguish, proves 
Sometimes not easy. Thus our good Mikkos here 

[Patting the ape lightly] 

Was once a philosopher of the ancient sect 
Call'd pre-Ionic — in his day the most 
Redoubtable of doubters. 

Glaucus 
[Gravely; nodding his head unsteadily] 

Madam, we doubt it not. 

Circe 

Fate ordain'd 

That to this island he should drift and taste 

Our cordials. Whereon he was profoundly struck 

With my maid Myrto. 

[Here Myrto without looking up sets her wheel 

[66] 



THE FIRST ACT 83 



a-spinning loudly for a brief moment, causing the 
banqueters to turn their eyes in her direction.] 

From that hour a change 
Came o'er him. 

Myrto 
It was a harmless fancy ; 
And he is harmless now. 

[Upon hearing Myrto's voice Mikkos without turn- 
ing toward her begins to raise himself by his hands 
upon the arms of the chair, but at a sign from Circe 
lowers himself to sitting posture.] 

Theron 
[To Circe ; pointing with his fork to Philinna] 
But why, madam? — why did he not choose 
That young miss there behind him? 

Circe 
He was a philosopher, I said. 

Theron 

He was a pig! — 

Circe 
Ah, by the by, Thermia, didst thou tell Graea 
To renovate those sties? 

[67 1 



CIRCE 



Thermia 

I did, my lady. 
More swine, she says, have bolted 
And to the woods run wild. One sty stands empty. 

Circe 
It shall be fill'd erelong. 

Phorbas 
[Looking anxiously at a platter before him] 

Might there be a possible doubt about these 
spareribs.'^ 

Circe 
Not the least ; 
I have a discriminating cook. 

Theron 
[Helping himself to more meat] You can wager 
She knows pork when she sees it ! 

Elpenor 
My father feeds hogs too. 

Circe 
Thy father, gentle youth, will be to-morrow 
One pig the poorer. — But where dwells he pray? 

[68 1 



THE FIRST ACT 



Elpenor 
He dwells at home ; I left him there. 

Theron 

Lady, the lad forgets ; I do much doubt 

If his own name he can remember right now. 

Circe 

It is an infirmity that ofttimes with wassail 
Waxes apace. But haply you, good sir, 
Can tell me whence ye came.^^ 

Theron 

O sure, ma'am ! we came lately from a cove 
Call'd .Eolus. 

Circe 

Ah, what ! — from my great kinsman, 
The steward of the winds. ^^ 

Theron 

A windy stew 
He brew'd for us ! — Great Juno ! icas it breezy, 
Glauc ? 

[C9 1 



CIRCE 



Glaucus 
Madam, I am a sailor ; but I never 
Saw such incessant, damnable contrary winds 
In all my voyaging ! 

Phorbas 
[Rousing himself excitedly] 

Yes, yes ; but who? 
Who let 'em out? Who let 'em out? 

[Glaucus looks fiercely at the speaker and Theron 
extends his fist threateningly toward him, Phorbas 
shrinks away.] 

Circe 
But, gentlemen, pray inform me ; whither now 
Would ye be wafted? From which quarter should 
Those breezes blow enabling you to reach 
The desired haven? 

Theron 

We don't know that, because 
We don't know where we are. 

Elpenor 
We 're here now. 

[70] 



THE FIRST ACT 



Glaucus 
We 're downright weary o' pulling 
Across head winds ! 

Circe 
But which of you is leader? 
Which one doth stand for steering and shrewd 
guidance? 

Elpenor 
He stopp'd outside. 

Phorbas 
W^e thought he enter'd with us ; but once inside, 
We miss'd him. 

Circe 
What he hath miss'd he knows not. I shall send 
Mikkos to fetch him. 

Glaucus 
Our leader, lady. 
Is a good careful man, yet over wary 
Of women or witchcraft. So soon he caught the 

strain 
Of the song you sang it paralyzed him. 

[711 



CIRCE 

Circe 

Ah! 

Glaucus 
Were he here now, he could not look you 
Square in the face, as I do. 

[Glaucus is gazing at Circe admiringly.] 

Elpenor 

He might see 
That brass snake on her arm. 

Glaucus 

He would abhor 
The arm worse than the serpent. 

Circe 

Is then my arm 
So frightful? 

Theron 

The arm 's all right, ma'am ; but there 's something 

wrong 
About Eurylochus. 

Circe 
So ; Eurylochus is your leader.'^ 

[72] 



THE FIRST ACT 

Glaucus 

Only a bit 
Backward about leading, when he scents 
A woman in the wind. 

Circe 

And he would fear 
Us hospitable maidens? — and, we trust, 
Of aspect not forbidding. 

Theron 

O, it 's all one 
About the aspect. You could tree him. ma'am. 
As quick as the giant's daughter. 

Circe 

The giant's daughter.'^ 

Theron 
Yes, ma'am ; we landed lately on a lot 
Of bloody cannibals — this big gal first ; 
And Eurylochus took to a tree. 

Elpenor 
[Pointing to Phorbas] He climb'd up too. 

[73 1 



Ba CIRCE 



Circe 
What ! does your friend fear women also? 

Theron 
O no, ma'am. Phorb 's a trifle timid like, 
Whether it 's a he or she. You see, it 's this way : 
Phorb was a-fear'd, because she was so large ; 
And Eurylochus, because she was a lady. 

Circe 
She was a lady then? 

Phorbas 
She laid out Theron 
When he made up to her. 

Theron 

I had half a mind 
To make pork chop o' the bloomin' hussy ! — Ye 

gods ! 
This meat-knife here does hang plumb heavy 
For an after-dinner appendage. 

[He detaches the cleaver from his belt and lays it on 
the tabhy at the same time loosening the belt.] 

[741 



THE FIRST ACT 



I don't want 
The dang'd thing danghng at my haunches when 
The dancing begins. 

Elpenor 

When does it begin, Theron? 

Theron 

SpHt me if I know ! There 's a raft more drinks 
On the tapis yet. 

Circe 

My friends, I shall soon show you 
A new dance call'd the four-step. 

Several Voices 

Hi, hi ! Hip, hip ! [They pound on the table with their 
cwps.] 

Theron 

Ha, ha ! The four-step ; two-and-two two-step : 
That means partners ! 

[He leers again at Philinna, drains his cup and 

[75 1 



ggS CIRCE BI 

waves it toward her. — Otlier men seem to pay in- 
creased attention to the nymphs serving them.] 

Glaucus 

[Admiringly, but unsteadily] Do you dance it, 
madam, yourself? 

Circe 

O no ; but Mikkos knows it. 

[Here the ape slowly raises himself by the hands until 
all four extremities rest upon the arms of the chair y 
remaining a moment or two in this position before 
lowering himself.] 

Theron 

Would you mind, ma'am, 
Letting that there young miss step over here to 

take 
The place of this one? 

He points to Philinna and indicates Thermia 
behind him with his left thumb over the shoulder.] 

[761 



THE FIRST ACT 



Elpenor 
[Parejithetically] Don't take her away ! 

Circe 

A moment, sir ; I have some present need of her. 
One choicest cordial I have not yet brought 
To your attention. In my island only 
The vintage can be stored. — A jar, Philinna ; 
Here on my table. 

Philinna 

Do you mean, my lady. 
The wine which for ourselves alone we press? 

Circe 
Yes, child ; these are no e very-day arrivals ; go ! 

[Philinna goes out at Right 2. The other nymphs 
present, except Myrto and Thermia, leave the room 
quietly and wiobservedly, closing the Left central door. 
Theron's song begins as Philinna disappears. The 
refrain and chorus are joined in by all the men except 
Elpenor and Phorbas, who look at each other and 
laugh.] 

[77 1 



CIRCE 



Theron 
[Sings; still looking toward the door where Philinna 
went out.] 
It was a stout sailor who cook'd for the crew ; 

All 
Sing yo, heave yo ! 

Theron 
A-shedding salt tears while he season'd the stew. 

All 

A-shedding salt tears while he season'd the stew. 

Sing yo, heave yo, on the briny ! 

Theron 
Salt tears for the sweetheart that jilted him last ; 

All 
Sing yo, heave yo ! 

Theron 
And the onions he peel'd made 'em fall thick and 
fast. 

All 
And the onions he peel'd made 'em fall thick and 
fast. 

Sing yo, heave yo, on the briny ! 

[78] 



THE FIRST ACT 



Circe 
[To Glaucus] Would that song paralyze your 
leader, sir? 

Glaucus 
The allusion would prick him, madam ; depend 

upon it. — 
[Turning to Theron] One more. Thee, — till she 's 
back with the bitters. 

Theron 
[Sings] One fine morning the pudding-bag busted 
a flap ; 

All 
Sing yo, heave yo ! 

Theron 
So he boil'd the noon mess in his greasy cook's cap. 
[Here Theron takes his cap from his head and lays 
it over a plate.] 

All 

So he boil'd the noon mess in his greasy cook's cap. 

Sing yo, heave yo, on the briny ! 

Theron 
" For God's sake," cried the captain, *' what 's 
struck the plum-duff? " 

[79] 



El CIRCE 



All 
Sing yo, heave yo ! 

Theron 
** We don't need hogs' bristles to flavor the stuff ! " 

All 

" We don't need hogs' bristles to flavor the stuff ! " 

Sing yo, heave yo, on the briny ! 

[With the last chorus Philinna re-enters bearing a 
punch-bowl of elegant pattern, smaller than the one 
on the sideboard at the opposite end of the room. She 
places the bowl upon the table before Circe, while the 
men become silent as they look on.\ 

Myrto 
My lady, may Mikkos have a drop? 

[At these words the ape begins to draw himself up by 
the hands again. Circe nods assent to Myrto.] 

Circe 
Philinna ! 

[Philinna fills a cup from the bowl and hands it to 

[80 1 



tSS THE FIRST ACT QS 

the ape. She also sets a small cup of wine before 
Circe. Mikkos drains the beaker, holding it with 
both hands and throwing his head very far back; and 
while the eyes of all the inen are directed toward him 
with amused attention Circe, opening a very small 
silver casket that hangs at her girdle, takes a fine 
poivder therefrom and quickly throws it into the 
bowl. She draws the wand nearer to her hand.] 

Circe 
Thermia ! 

[At the word, Thermia passes up to Circe's table 
and she and Philinna, _^//m^ pitchers from Circe's 
bowl, proceed to refill the cups of the banqueters in 
regular order, Thermia from left to right, Philinna 
from right to left. Then as they meet at the centre 
both the nymphs retire together to the extreme Right 
near Circe. Meanwhile the sombre figure of Graea 
the Swine-maiden is discovered lurking in the cor- 
ridor behind the Right central doorway.] 

Circe 
[Raising her cup] To the health of your backward 
leader, my brave guests ! 

[811 



CIRCE 



Glaucus 
[Half-rising; unsteadily] Out, out ! To hostess, 

hostess ! Here 's to hostess ! 
[All drink; and the effects of the drug straightway 
become apparent. An expression of stupefaction and 
horror passes over the faces of the men. They look at 
each other vacantly with forced smiles; their heads 
and arms sway and droop; they swing round in 
their seats and are evidently unconscious of their 
situation. At the first symptoms of this delirium the 
Enchantress rises deliberately from her throne, wand 
in hand; and gliding along the line toward the Left 
taps lightly and quickly each man with the wand 
without pausing in her course. Then she steps upon 
the dais.] 

Circe 
[Sternly; with wand pointed upward and back 
toward the Right centre] 

Hence to the sty ! your proper shapes assume ! 

[Directly Graea, who during Circe's movements has 
stridden noiselessly into the room and has passed 
along its edge behind Thermia and Philinna and 
the Enchantress^ throne until in frotit of the other 
table near the point where Phorbas sits, raises her 

[82 1 



THE FIRST ACT 



long whip and cracks it fiercely with sharp detonation 
at the men's feet. In a huddle they rush tumultuously 
away with drooping heads and arms to the open rear 
doorway and out through it, passing in front of 
Myrto and her wheel and followed by Graea lash- 
ing furiously . Some of the fugitives y as they drop on 
all fours near the exit, are seen to have already 
developed curly pigs" tails at their posteriors. As the 
victims rush forth Mikkos springs upon the empty 
throne of Circe and balancing himself upon its arms 
gazes intently into the boiol on the table before him, 
while Myrto sets her tvheel revolving and humming 
loudly. The drop-curtain falls just as the door closes 
behind the herd and Graea disappearing over the 
corridor.] 

The several positions at the fall of the curtain are as follows : 
Circe stands upon the dais with wand raised in the attitude 
described. Myrto sits at her wheel, which turns more and 
more slowly as the curtain descends. Philinna and Thermia 
stand near the boudoir, still holding their pitchers, the hand 
of one girl resting on the other's shoulder. Mikkos, poised 
upon Circe's chair, his head lower than his tail, pores 
intently over the punch-bowl. No person exhibits signs of 
amusement or excitement of any sort. Their faces are serene, 
their figures motionless. The wheel comes to a standstill just 
as the descending curtain hides it. 

183 1 



CIRCE 



VII 

The same as Scenes III and V. The Seashore. Eurylochus 
is still seated on the stone by the ship, gloomy and dejected. 
The other men stand in a group not far from him, apparently 
discussing some serious proposal. 

First Sailor 
Anyway he ordered us to stay here and guard the 
ship. 

Philemon 
Just so ; I believe in obeying orders myself ; but, 
lads, this is an extraordinary case. 

Second Sailor 
A case it is ! But the commander 's equal to it I 
reckon. 

Xenias 
The commander 's equal to anything on a square 
deal. But it 's odds here against one man ; 
he '11 need help if the land lies the way the 
mate makes it out. 

Eurylochus 
[Turning and facing the others without rising] 
Are ye all mad, and will not lay to heart 

[84 1 



THE FIRST ACT 



The sights and sounds of foul bedevilment 
Haunting this cursed island? Will ye follow 
Into the pit the steps of that rash man, 
Foolhardy Ulysses? — the same who prick'd us on 
To explore the ogre's cavern, where six brave men 
Were sever'd limbmeal and devour'd ! 

Several Voices 
Out ! out ! 

Xenias 
Bother the ogre ! The commander 's started now to 
pull half the ship's company out of a hole and 
if a human subject could compass the busi- 
ness he 's it. But if there 's a dash of witch- 
craft here, we ought to be with him and 
shoulder our share. 

First Sailor 
Ay, ay ! that 's the talk ! 

EURYLOCHUS 

What signifies mere number, when mortal wills 
Clash with uncanny spirits? It is all over 
With him and them ! — We are enough to row 
Our galley launch'd and from these shores deliver'd. 

[85 1 



CIRCE 



Several Voices 
Ho, shame ! shame ! 

Philemon 
Mark my words, lads ; if the other fellows have 
got to trot round in wolf and tiger skins 
we 're bound to go on all fours along with 'em 
and not leave 'em in the lurch. If the com- 
mander 's beating his way back we shall meet 
him on the trip ; if he is n't, he '11 need help 
for certain. We '11 walk into that domicile, 
witch or no witch ! 

Second Sailor 
Take her by storm ! 

Several Voices 
Right, right ! Come on ! come on ! 

Xenias 
Eurylochus here '11 stand shipguard. He won't 
shove her off all alone I reckon. 

Philemon 
Take up your traps now ! Lively ! 

[86] 



THE FIRST ACT BS 



[The men stir about, making ready for their departure] 

Here we go ! 

[They march away briskly, going out as the other 
'party and Ulysses had gone. Philemon leads; 
Xenias brings up the rear, watchfully.] 

Xenias 
[Turning back, at the last moment] 

Don't let her fly away, old man ; 
If you hear hell howling, it 's us ! 

[As the party disappears Eurylochus unth a 
gesture of despair flings himself down by the keel of 
the vessel.] 



87 



CIRCE 



VIII 

A grove upon sloping ground near Circe's palace. Large 
trees cast deep shadows with sunny spaces between. The 
mansion itself is not visible ; but on the Left at some eleva- 
tion a glimpse is afforded of the court-yard wall. A faint 
pathway amid shrubbery winds from the Right front upward 
and out on the Left at the rear. 

Enter Ulysses at the Right, tracing the path slowly and 
cautiously. Percei\4ng the wall above and before him he 
pauses, moves his right hand involuntary toward his sword- 
hilt and lifts the left to his lips meditatively. While he thus 
.stands reconnoitering and pondering. Mercury suddenly 
appears before him, stepping noiselessly from the shadow of a 
tree upon the Left. At this apparition Ulysses draws back 
an instant with head slightly bowed, while his hand leaves 
the sword and is lifted to a reverential gesture. The demeanor 
of Mercury is easy and gracious. His insignia, though 
plainly recognizable, are less conspicuous and brilliant than 
they appeared in Scene II. 

Mercury 
[Taking the up-lifted hand of Ulysses] 

Whither now, fate-worn wanderer, whither tending 
Thread'st thou the dim paths of this briery steep? 
What region holds thee or perchance what guile 
Lurks in its mazy folds, wouldst thou not prove ? — 
Ere to that dome ascending, where in foul sties 



THE FIRST ACT 



Thy luckless comrades grovel now and groan, 

To swinish shape by the enchantress changed ! 

[As the god speaks he withdraws his hand and 
indicates the direction of the palace. Ulysses recoils 
slightly at the last words of Mercury.] 

One only, so minded that in Circe's song 
He read the bane it glozed, did value well 
His safety and proclaim'd their loss. — Whom thou 
Aimest forsooth to rescue and redeem ! 
Rather methinks the porcine couch to share 
With them and vanish from men, came not 
Some guardian hand between. — But lo ! there grows 
An antidote — a good drug, that shall check 
The baleful magic of her potions. 

[Mercury pulls from the ground, inoving aside the 
undergrowth which concealed it, a small plant and 
shows it to Ulysses.] 

See! 
Black at the root, milk-white the flower ; 't is moly: 
So to the immortals known ; of men, scarce found. 

[Ulysses receives the herb from the hand of the god 
with an air of profound attention and a shade of 
wonder.] 

[89 1 



CIRCE 



Now may thy steps to yon weird mansion mount 
And tread its halls unscathed, Ulysses, if 
My mandate thou shalt heed and ponder well. 

[Ulysses shifts his attentive regard from the "plant 
in his hand to the speaker.] 

Her song will thrill thee, but the transforming spell 
Shall break before the potent herb thou holdest. 
Undaunted wilt thou enter ; nor be shamed 
If thy quick pulses bound when Circe's glance 
Encounters thine, and the soft audible charm 
Of low- voiced invitation laps thee round. 
Thou may'st admire and still be master. Straight 
With her own hand a fragrant wine-cup filling, 
When by her side she thrones thee, she will proffer 
And bid thee drink — it is the poison'd chalice. 
Yet quaff thou undismay'd, Ulysses. Then, 
So soon 't is swallow'd and thyself unchanged, 
Her magic wand wielded in vain, draw thou 
Swiftly thy sword and rush as if to slay 
At the enchantress with high-threatening blade. 

[Ulysses' look of wonderment increases as Mercury 
pauses.] 

The issue thou wilt mark. But let not pity 
Nor the new spell of female blandishment 

[90] 



THE FIRST ACT 



O'ercome thy senses or disarm thy hand, 

Ere to its mastery yet once more she yields 

And their true forms to thy changed mates restores. 

Ulysses 
O gracious Helper, it is thy spirit that guides 
Where eye of mortal swerves : to whom full oft 
We pour'd thank-offering at the banquet's close. 

Mercury 
Who himself well bethinks, the gods assist. 
Of drugs and arts uncanny mere human prudence 
Compasseth not, Ulysses, sure defeat. — 
But in her craft once baffled, 't is with the wo7nan, 
No more the enchantress, thou wilt deal thereafter. 
Nor are those powers to be despised, which oft 
Compel a conqueror's fealty and confuse 
The sober aims of confident wisdom. 
[While Ulysses again looks down reiiectively at the 
plant he holds Mercury suddenly disappears. 
Ulysses, looking up and seeing the god no longer, 
throws a keen glance in the direction of the wall. He 
then tastes and swallows a morsel of the herb; and as 
he moves on and goes out at the Left with firm step 
the music of Circe's song is faintly heard behind 
the scenes.] 

[91] 



sa CIRCE ESS 

IX 

The same as Scenes II and IV. The banquet-hall. The com- 
mon chairs have been removed. There are cups and a bowl 
on the table at the Right. The Enchantress and her three 
nymphs are in their usual places when the curtain rises : 
Circe sitting ; Philinna and Thermia standing ; Myrto 
seated at her wheel which she turns slowly. The attitude of 
the persons is one of expectancy. In a moment Circe, without 
turning her face, signs to Myrto with her left hand while 
with the right she draws the wand on the table nearer. The 
wheel ceases to revolve. 

Circe 
Now Thermia ! 

[Thermia throws open the door behind the dais. An 
instant later Ulysses enters, slowly hut unhesitatingly, 
pausing as he stands on the platform exactly where 
Mercury stood in Scene II. His look is directed 
straight at the Enchantress. His right arm is crossed 
downward upon his breast, the hand under the 
mantle. A trace of wonder or fascination passes over 
his face on meeting Circe's gaze, while a similar 
feeling of surprise is for a moment betrayed by her 
also. As she speaks she rises from her chair.] 



92 



THE FIRST ACT 

Circe 
Welcome, sir leader ! 

[Ulysses bows slightly. He does not remove his 
helmet.] 

Thou art 
Too far by thine own men outstripp'd, even though 
Their famish'd weary members sought repose 
Prompt and appropriate. 

[Ulysses bends his look more sternly upon the 
speaker.] 

Pray advance ; and take 
From our own hand, though proffer'd late, 
Cordial refreshment. 

[He moves slowly forward. Philinna draws well 
back the throne of Circe and presents the other one. 
With a gracious gesture Circe waves Ulysses toward 
the second throne. He passes in front of her and seats 
himself. She sits again, served by Philinna.] 

Thy silence augurs much 
Of rude unfriendly greetings and rebuff 
Elsewhere. 

[While speaking she fills a beaker from the bowl.] 
But here are restful words and welcome 
Right hospitable. 

[93] 



CIRCE 



[Her right hand closes firmly over the wand, while 
with the left she presents the cup.] 

So drink and be at peace ! 

[Still keeping his eye fixed upon Circe, Ulysses 
raises the cup to his lips and drains it. Immediately 
the gracious look of the Enchantress changes. Rising 
partly in her seat and bending forward, she strikes 
him smartly with her wand and holds it threateningly 
as she speaks.] 

Circe 

Hence to the sty ! Go, join thy wallowing mates ! 

[Instantly, feeling that the potion has not harmed 
him, Ulysses springs erect, swiftly draws his sword 
and raising it aloft rushes upon the Enchantress as 
if to kill her. With a loud cry she starts hack, causing 
the throne to slide away behind her; then dropping 
her wand she springs forward under the threatening 
sword-arm in suppliant attitude. Philinna, at first 
shrinking back in terror, directly as Circe falls at 
Ulysses' feet follows her; and kneeling, shelters her 
mistress' head with her right arm, while the left is 
raised in deprecating gesture. At the same time 
Thermia starts a step forward with her right hand 

[94 1 



eS THE FIRST ACT H 

lifted, the left pressed to her bosom. Myrto, after a 
first look of alarm, reaches behind her and throws 
open the Left rear door, where Mikkos appears. He 
seems excited. Myrto seizes his chain. At the Right 
rear entrance, Graea is seen glaring furtively into 
the room. — Circe speaks as Ulysses seems to 
hesitate to strike the fatal blow.] 

Circe 

What man art thou? What mortal hath this wonder 
Unheard of wrought, these potions to abide? 
For never, never did other Hps unbhghted 
Press the drugg'd bowl, save thine ! — Ah, yes ; 

't was true : 
Ulysses thou art, whom Mercury foretold, 
From Trojan field thy lone bark homeward steering. 
He, he hath found thee moly ! And I thought 
It were Eurylochus, whom his followers named ; 
The craven, the woman-hater ! 

[Ulysses lowers his weapon, still grasping it firmly. 
His stern look relaxes slightly as Circe and Philinna, 
kneeling, lift their faces to him with aspect softened 
to the expression of pleading. Thermia steps nearer y 
intently observing the scene; while Graea, entering 

[95] 



CIRCE IS 



the room, and Myrto, holding Mikkos' chain, also 
move slightly forward. At this juncture all of the 
persons have come to form nearly a single group.] 

Circe 

O Ulysses ! 
Thrice valiant, thrice in wisdom proved, not thee 
Would Circe in foul brutal shape behold ; 
But as thou art ! — Return, return thy sword 
To its safe cover ! 

[Ulysses steps hack a pace, and Circe rises to her 
feet, holding the hand of Philinna who has risen first.] 

What use have we for war, 
Whom fate and fortune fashion'd to be friends? 

\With deliberation Ulysses sheathes his sword, 
falling hack still farther. Circe and Philinna 
move forward toward him.] 

Thermia 
Happy are they who find a friend in Circe, 
Sir stranger ! 

[His countenance remains unmoved as he divides his 
attentio7i hetween Circe and Thermia after a 
suspicious glance at Mikkos and Graea.] 

[96] 



BS THE FIRST ACT Q 

Circe 
Nay, doubt not, but be refresh'd ! 

[She signs to Thermia, who shows Ulysses to the 
throne ivhich Mercury had occupied in Scene II. 
As he sits he doffs his helmet, which Thermia receives 
and hangs upon the wall. Circe resumes her seat. 
She speaks while Thermia serves Ulysses at the 
other table.] 

And be thy mind at rest. No more of drifting 
On the dark seas ; sure knowledge shall illume 
The pathways of thy homeward voyage, Ulysses. 

[A pause. With troubled look he barely tastes what 
is set before him.] 

Ah, weary heart ! why thus 

Sit'st thou all-speechless, tasting not the food 

Set guileless by thy hand.'^ Believ'st thou not 

My plain assurance and changed mood? Dost hold 

The word of Circe in no honor because 

With cunning art she baffles and disarms 

The unworthy false petitioner? 

Ulysses 
Fair Circe, dread enchantress, what true man 
Could eat and be at comfort, whilst he knows 

197] 



CIRCE 



His trusty comrades lie imprison 'd, bent low 
To bestial habit? — Nay, if thy alter'd mien 
Harbors indeed the good- will it portends, 
Then first let me behold my men restored 
To their own shapes. No falsehood stamp'd their 

errand. 
Nor undeserving were they in themselves. 

Circe 
Deserve those well of their commander, who lose 
His very name and tidings from their thoughts? 

Ulysses 
Another led them ; and, the leader failing, 
The follower who forgets may be forgiven. 

Circe 
Eurylochus wins slight mercy by that word. 

Ulysses 
Eurylochus won the birthright of the wary. 

Circe 
A father art thou to thy men, Ulysses : 
Even as I guard with jealous motherly eye 

[98] 



@ THE FIRST ACT EB 

The welfare of these nymphs. Nor hast thou long 

To wait, ere the whole frolic throng shall make 

My portals ring with greetings of their captain. 

Not those alone whom we repress'd and punish'd 

And for thy sake will pardon, but likewise they 

Who tarry by the shore — for well I know 

Wily Ulysses staked not all his forces 

On a forlorn wild venture. — Nay, doubt not ; 

Even Eurylochus shall be reconciled ! 

Go, Graea ; Myrto ; seek the ship, and teach them 

The way to find us. Leave not one unbidden ! 

Ulysses 
Great Circe, I will trust thee ; 't is sore need ! 
By thy sage guidance, or in no wise, we reach 
The desired haven. 

Circe 
[To Myrto and Graea who have hesitated as if 
awaiting further command. They go out at Right C, 
accompanied by Mikkos.] 

Speed now ! the shadow creeps 
Well past the noontide mark. Away, away ! — 
Noble Ulysses, thou shalt soon behold them. — 
But first, my Thermia, show our gracious guest 

[99 1 



CIRCE 



The bathing chambers, where by warm showers 

assuaged 
His long sea-weariness may release him. 

[Ulysses bows to Circe. He unslings his sword, 
which Thermia receives and hangs up near the 
helmet. She then conducts him out at Left 2. At the 
same moment when Ulysses puts off his sword, 
Philinna lifts Circe's wand from the floor where it 
had fallen.] 

Philinna 

[Handing the wand to Circe, who receives it as it 
were unconsciously] 

dearest lady ! 

What chance, what change befalls us? O ! how dared 
That strange, still man to lift his dreadful sword 
As if to kill you? Are his devices stronger 
Than your own arts.'^ O, how could you pretend 
To cherish and befriend him ! 

Circe 

Nay, Philinna : 

1 am not feigning. Oft had I mused and ponder'd 
On Mercury's warning and Ulysses' name. 

f 100] 



THE FIRST ACT 



Nor did I dread his coming. But strange haps 

Disturb'd my vision and I knew him not. 

My potions could indeed avail no longer. 

Their cure and antidote once found. Yet never 

Into unworthy hands do gods resign 

Their priceless secrets. No ; I would not harm 

A man so strong and wise ! It is the first I — 

Now go, Philinna, and lay my simples ready. 

Which for the counter-charm I shall employ. 

To change his comrades back. 

[Philinna, who looks wonderingly at Circe and 
seems hardly to comprehend her demeanor, withdraws 
slowly, going out at Right 2. Circe casts a glance 
where Ulysses had gone out; then, looking down at 
the wand held loosely in her hand, soliloquizes.] 

Yes, yes ; there is 

No falsehood on the lip, when the heart guides 

To new unwonted utterance, though it seem 

All former strains and strivings to belie. 

His coming I fear'd not ; I rather craved 

To behold the promised visitor whose shrewd wit 

Should test my powers of magic and perchance 

Turn them (as hath befallen) from woe to weal 

f 1011 



CIRCE BS 



For him and his. Yet till I saw I doubted ; 
Nor knew, first seeing. 

[She clasps her hands at her back, holding the wand 
behind her.] 

O, there is a way 
Surer than any drug, to bind wise hearts ! 
Wielding no w^and of transformation, but 
With fine invisible weapons to o'ercome 
His might who seems to conquer ; and reveal 
What weakness lurks beneath. And Circe's arts 
(Which sooner aim to hinder than to harm) 
Shall still fail not ! 

[Re-enter Thermia, who begins to put the table in 
order where Ulysses had been served.] 

Fair Thermia, we shall need 
Straightway new-garnish'd tables and the plenty 
Of a redoubled evening banquet. Soon 
That eager company, Myrto's charge, will troop 
Past porch and threshold to the expected board — 
Not indisposed, I fancy, toward such welcome. — 
Ay, forthwith, Thermia ! 

[Thermia sounds a whistle which hangs at her girdle, 
and other nymphs enter and proceed to deck the tables.] 

[102] 



THE FIRST ACT 



Even our guest, their captain, 
Will find his zest, when in good sooth he sees 
His two ship-companies made one. — Ah, there ; 
Even now they come ! 

[A clambering and murmur are heard. The door 
leading from the porch flies open, and Ulysses' 
company, headed by Philemon and Xenias, enter 
precipitately, though not in rude disorder, their 
faces beaming with the excitement of wonder and 
expectancy. Circe stands at her usual place, holding 
the ivand with her hands clasped in front of her, and 
Philinna appears at the door behind. Thermia and 
her helpers desist from their task at the tables as the 
men enter, and draiv back near the exits. The nymphs 
stand motionless and placid during the remainder of 
the scene, taking no part in the action and unnoticed 
by the other persons.] 

Philemon 

Madam, we 're a bit unceremonious, no doubt. But 
our errand 's an urgent one ; and we encoun- 
tered an invitation after a manner, if there be 
no mistake about it. 

[1031 



sa CIRCE 



Circe 

All ceremony shall be waived, good sir. What hap 
Fosters this urgency? 

Philemon 

We 're Ulysses' men, lady ! come to seek him and 
deliver him — by your leave. He cast off alone 
when the leader of the other watch came back 
from here in such a blue funk ; and he ordered 
us to wait for him by the ship. But we felt a 
trifle uneasy, after that yarn of snakes and 
fireworks Eurylochus spun for us, and fol- 
lowed to help. W^e 'd nigh about made the 
top, when we met your two maids, ma'am, 
and the monkey. We knew they must hail 
from some witch-pen or other for certain, 
when we spied such a bunch of triplets, and 
we veered off a point or two at first ; but the 
little black-eyed one — she as had the ape in 
tow — spoke us so fair and told such a straight 
story, how the commander was safe and 
sound and everybody happy up here, and you 
had sent specially to invite us, that we felt 
mighty encouraged to believe her and headed 

[104] 



EB THE FIRST ACT 



straight for the top again, while they went 
down to fetch Eurylochus ; — especially seeing 
we had made up our minds — begging your 
pardon again, lady — to effect an entrance 
anyway. — But where is he ? 

Circe 
Your entrance had been barr'd nowise, when once 
You had named Ulysses — which your mates forgot, 
And came to grief thereby. — But you shall see him. 
There hangs his sword, his helm. 
He comes ; he has heard you ! 

[Ulysses enters at Left 2 behind the group of rnen^ 
who turn quickly. His appearance is imposing, his 
dress brilliant.] 

Circe 

For me, I have another 
Business to set on foot. — Philinna ; ready .f^ 

[Philinna signs aifirmatively , and as Ulysses greets 
his men Circe goes out at Right 2, Philinna remain- 
ing at the doorway.] 

Ulysses 
Xenias ! good Philemon ! 

[105 1 



(SI CIRCE 



[All throng about their commander with handshaking 
and joyous exclamations.] 

Philemon 
'T is you? You are here, sir? — and all right ! 
'T was a true tale, then, by the great gods ! 

Ulysses 
Ah, you see I slipt not. 

Xenias 
But it was n't long before we slipt after you ! 
Mind you, sir, we did n't wait for the sum- 
mons. 

Ulysses 
'T was a pardonable impatience, I acknowledge. 

[A voice raised in sharp tone of command, followed 
by a sudden uproar, is heard behind the scenes. 
Circe enters quickly at Right C, with her wand 
raised high, which as she comes in she lowers and 
points backward. Both the rear doors fly open. In 
their proper persons the men who were changed to 
swine burst in abruptly upon the scene, one or two or 
three at a time, stopping and gazing about them with 

[106] 



THE FIRST ACT 



'puzzled and amazed expression. They rub their eyes 
or tap their foreheads, till gradually recollecting them- 
selves they recognize their situation. The restored 
men seem to have gained in comeliness; their faces 
are fresh, their clothing is new, presenting a contrast 
to the well-worn garments of the other party. Theron 
appears even stouter than before; his cook's cap and 
dress are dazzling white. Elpenor, near him, has 
become sleeker, though no less slender than ever. All 
the men are serious; and the re-transformed 
exhibit profound emotion, weeping as they recognize 
their companions and the commander. The meeting 
is an occasion rather for action than for speech : its 
words are chiefly outcries and the ejaculation of 
familiar names. The throng becomes more calm and 
quiet when the Enchantress, who has herself been 
visibly moved, at length speaks, standing at the head 
of her table.] 

Circe 

Cease ; cease, good men ! Enough of tears ! Yield 

now 
To the bright hour ; and from your much-tried 

hearts 
Let present peace and comfort rub away 

[107] 



CIRCE 



The black unhandsome stains of foul mischance. 
Here stand ye face to face and hand to hand, 
Unscathed, unconquer'd. Winds and wild seas 

and all 
The weary thankless strain of laboring oar, 
Duress and guile and hostile rude encounter. 
Have but conspired to point you to the fairest 
Of restful shores. — Ulysses, in good time, 
After due respite, if thou cravest still 
Some farther convoy, 't is secure. But now 
Mirth, pleasure, shall prevail. — Only there lacks 
Yet one I would fain welcome, though himself 
Of faint reciprocation. 

Ulysses 
Gracious lady, I am confident that Eurylochus 
will conclude to join us when once informed 
of our situation and finding himself left 
permanently alone. 

Xenias 
Belike he may take to the woods, your honor, when 
the triplets heave in sight. 



Circe 
O, Mikkos will manage that ! 

[108] 



THE FIRST ACT 



Elpenor 
Eurylochus climbs trees. 

Theron 
Avast there ! Mikkos is the monkey. Hast left thy 
memory in the hog-pen, boy? 

Glaucus 
[Who has been on the lookout] Sail ho ! They are 
boarding the gangway already, ma'am. 

[Enter from the porch Myrto, leading Mikkos ; theri 
Eurylochus ; Graea behind him. The mate advances 
hesitatingly, but is closely followed up by the swine- 
maiden. As he perceives Ulysses and the men his 
expression is partly of relief, partly of shamefaced- 
ness. His alarm has not entirely left him, but he 
casts shy and suspicious glances toward Circe while 
Myrto speaks.] 

Myrto 
We have fetched him, my lady, though I believe 
he never would have been caught if there had 
not been three of us together. We found him 
down by the little bay where their ship is 
drawn ashore ; and when he saw us he started 

[ 109 1 



CIRCE 



to run into the water. But Graea waded out 
farther than he dared to go. Then he cHmbed 
up into the fig-tree ; but Mikkos cHmbed up 
still higher, so he had to come down directly 
where I was standing close to the roots of it ; 
although he seemed to fear me the most of all. 

Elpenor 
[Interrupting] You turn the whirligig. 

Myrto 
We had him between us now, where he could n't 
get away ; and I assured him the captain was 
safe, and told him how we had just met a 
party of his companions and invited them for 
you. For all that he did n't want to come ; but 
Graea stood close behind him and kept walk- 
ing until we got him here. 

[The men do not laugh at Eurylochus, though some 
smile faintly, and Circe is visibly amused.] 

Ulysses 
[Seriously] Eurylochus, all is well. Be thyself again. 
Bygones shall be bygones. There is naught to fear. 

[110] 



THE FIRST ACT 



Circe 
Indeed, sir, it is as your commander says. There is 
naught to fear ; and all is well, now that you 
have deigned to make up the perfect number 
of my company, so the entertainment may 
proceed. The tables are ready garnished, 
waiting for the viands only. You shall all 
find seats. 

[All the men except Eurylochus seat themselves 
in a quiet and orderly manner at both tables with- 
out discrimination of the two watches. Ulysses 
sits at the head of the table by the dais. Myrto 
and Graea have withdrawn to the back of the 
room. Circe, still standing^ claps her hands 
and the nymphs at the exits disappear, to bring 
the courses.] 

Eurylochus 
You make occasional exceptions no doubt, madam ; 
nevertheless I would take my oath upon it 
that that was once a man ! 

[He points at Mikkos, who, released by Myrto, has 
just jumped into his chair by Circe as she seats her- 
self. The ape shows his teeth and begins to raise 
himself by the hands.] 

[1111 



CIRCE 



Circe 
[Laughing] That was a manful thinker once. Sit ; 
sit, kind sir ! 

[The curtain falls as Eurylochus takes his seat 
near Ulysses amid a buzz of merriment.] 



END OF FIRST ACT 



112 



CIRCE 




AreP TWO 
I 

HE back of Circe's palace, late in the 
afternoon, one year later than the occur- 
rences of the First Act. The back of the 
building lies toward the setting sun, 
whose declining rays are now intercepted 
and softened into shade by foliage and 
flitting clouds. The pale yellow walls and 
tall narrow windows and the one central entrance on this side 
are not obscured by vines and traihng plants, but cleanly 
sheltered by a lofty colonnade which runs the entire length of 
the edifice, with wide low pavement only a step higher than 
the lawn that borders it. The veranda-floor and the plinth are 
dewy with freshly sprinkled water. The green sward of the 
foreground is varied by flower-beds and dotted with luxuriant 
trees, a bower and seats near by. Here there is no fountain ; 
but a streamlet, issuing from an archway at the Right corner 
of the palace, winds its way downward across the flowery 
slope. A peacock struts and spreads his fan in one of the open 
places. Some utterances of persons represented indicate that 
the situation affords glimpses of the sea. 
There are no suggestions of witchcraft or magic in the present 
scene. Where the anterior facade of the palace seemed 
weird or uncanny, the rear elevation and its belongings 
wear rather an idyllic aspect. 

The curtain rising discovers three couples severally grouped. 
Upon the veranda, at the Left, Circe and Ulysses are seated 

[1131 



CIRCE 



opposite each other at a small table, upon which are cups 
and a vase of flowers, while a nymph occasionally passes to 
and fro, serving them with wine from within. Circe is not 
attired as enchantress. She wears neither her black robe nor 
the coronal of pearls. The prevailing color of her Grecian 
dress is amethyst, and her hair is loosely confined by a 
narrow band of gold. — On the Right, at the farther end of 
the veranda, Philemon and Philinna sit side by side in 
confidential attitude. — Upon the lawn, in the foreground 
near the centre, far enough from the others to converse 
gently without being overheard by them, are seen Xenias 
and Thermia : the former seated carelessly facing sidewise 
toward the colonnade ; the latter standing by a tall shrub, 
cutting flowers which she gathers in the fold of her garment. 

Thermia 
[Who stands with her back to the veranda] 

If you will take a good long look, Xenias, just 
where you are looking now, you will see 
exactly why you and I are a whole lot luckier 
than some others I might name. 

Xenias 
How is that ? What 's the mystification now, Miss 
Inscrutable? I see only what we see every day ; 
and no great signs of bad luck about them yet. 

[114] 



THE SECOND ACT 



Thermia 
Of course we see it every day ! And every day is 
making it worse for them, friend Xenias. Do 
you suppose they can keep this sort of thing 
up forever? 

Xenias 
Well, what if they can't? I 've no doubt the illusion 
is mighty pleasant while it lasts. 

Thermia 
And so much the more painful when it comes to 
an end — but you and I have kept our wits 
about us, Xenias. 

Xenias 
And have been uncommon good friends all the 
time, you mean, Thermia — Well, I admit it 's 
the best way. But they don't think so. 

Thermia 
They think of nothing ! But it will set them think- 
ing, when the time comes for you to sail away. 

Xenias 
If that time ever does come ! The commander has 
got to order it ; and he does n't seem very likely 

[115] 



CIRCE 



to speak the word until your lady orders him. 
It 's true some of the lads are getting restive 
and tired of dilly-dallying, as they call it, 
here in this blessed island ! 

Thermia 

Yes, and Graea gives me to understand that 
Eurylochus is going about secretly stirring 
them up and wants them to put on a bold 
front and demand that something shall be 
done. 

Xenias 

Ah, so? He has n't said a word to me or Philemon. 
I reckon he thinks Philemon and Xenias are 
in the same box. 

Thermia 
Eurylochus does n't know the difference, of course ! 
I shall be sorry when you have to go, Xenias ; 
I shall miss you sadly after you are gone. But 
it will simply kill Philinna. 

Xenias 
Well now, what if Philemon should take her home 

[116 1 



THE SECOND ACT 



to Ithaca with him for his wife? He has n't 
got any Penelope waiting for him there. 

Thermia 

O heavens ! And do you beheve PhiHnna would 
ever leave Circe, or that Circe would ever let 
her go? 

Xenias 

And do you believe Philemon would ever leave 
Philinna behind, or that Philinna would ever 
let him go without her? 

Thermia 

Xenias, it 's a pity about them both — the greatest 
pity in the world ! As for Circe, she really 
admires your captain ; great men are scarce 
enough, she says ; but Circe will never lose 
her head, even if Ulysses has lost his ; nor will 
either of them be quite heart-broken, be sure. 
But Philinna ! Philinna ! 

[Circe, who has been laughing merrily ivith Ulysses, 
claps her hands twice.] 

Yes, now ; here comes the music they feed on. 

[117] 



CIRCE 



[Thermia begins to move away as Thrattis the 
lute-girl enters from the palace in response to 
Circe's summons.] 

Xenias 
But stay, Thermia, and let us hear it. 

Thermia 
O, it will only be the same old songs ! Besides, I 
have my vases to fill. 

[She goes out round the Right corner of the building. 
Xenias settles himself in a listening attitude.] 

Circe 
Thrattis, we need thee still. — 'T is strange, Ulysses, 
How, like some thirst or hunger, each day return 
These tuneful memories ! 

Ulysses 

Yet, fair Circe, charged 
With a more strange forgetfulness of all else 
Than that they celebrate. 

Circe 

Hist, listen now ! 

[118 1 



THE SECOND ACT 



Thrattis 
[Standing midway between the two couples on the 
veranda, after a brief prelude upon her instrument, 
sings.] 

Forget, forget ! Ah, linger not 

By dreams of yesterday ! 
Each vanish'd hour shall be forgot. 

Fresh phantasies hold sway. 
No lowlier crown the linden weaves 

Of tassel'd verdure now 
Because the old year's scatter'd leaves 

Return not to the bough. 

Circe 

[While an interlude is played] Our Thrattis echoes 
thy thought, Ulysses ; and indeed I find a 
certain sort of wisdom in the ditty. 

Ulysses 
Yet methinks it carries somewhat of a different 
effect from the open intention of it. 

Circe 

Wait, listen ! 

[119] 



CIRCE 

Thrattis 

[Sings] 

Forget, forget ! In love's demesnes 

No faded chaplet wear ; 
Nor conjure phantoms from lost scenes. 

To sit unbidden there. 
Round heaven her sign swift Iris sets. 

Flings forth her jewel'd zone : 
O, who beholds it but forgets 

The frowning storm-cloud flown? 

[The singer bends her head to hide her face as she 
sweeps the strings again.] 

Circe 
Good Thrattis, thou art tired standing. Sit and 
sip of the wine. Thou need'st sing no farther 
now. 

Philinna 
She weeps, my lady. 

[As Thrattis, declining the ofered refreshment^ 
turns and goes within.] 

Circe 
Poor soul ! truly I pity her. 

[120 1 



ETHE SECOND ACT 



Philemon 
But why does the girl weep, sweet Philinna? Has 
she some express sorrow attending her? 

Philinna 

O yes, Philemon ; nor will she put it entirely away. 
'T is three years agone since she floated to our 
island, lashed to some fragment of a vessel 
from the north which the hurricane had 
wrecked ; but her father and two brothers 
who so saved her life themselves perished in 
the sea. 

Philemon 

O, sad story ; unhappy Thrattis ! Yet so I do much 
wonder at the song she chose to sing. 

Philinna 
We could do little to assuage her grief. But Circe 
has been kind to her and taught her the songs 
she sings so sweetly to her lute. 

Ulysses 
Perchance some such strains would comfort the 
child as the captive Trojan maidens might 

11211 



CIRCE 



listen to betimes among us at the ships when 
the harp was struck. 

Circe 
Pray what, Ulysses? 

Ulysses 

Such as sounded praise 
Not for the living and the days we lived 
(Which with their moil and megrim did afford 
Scant food, I grant, for eulogy) ; but ever 
With vision backward turn'd the bard would seek 
Among long-treasured memories one most apt 
And draw it forth. Then did we lose all sense 
Of aching limbs, sore wounds, and comrades slain, 
Whilst in high-swelling measures like great waves 
Of Iphitus or Heracles he sang — 
Glories of ancient men. 

Circe 

It was fair medicine 
To still the pains ye dwelt in. In my isle 
Such cordials find not place. — But come, Ulysses, 
And see me prove the powers of that rare herb 

[122] 



THE SECOND ACT 



Whereof I promised. — Philinna, attend us. Of 

simples 
My sampler art thou. 

[Circe laughs heartily as she utters the last words 
and she and Ulysses rise from their seats. Ulysses 
joins in the laugh. Philinna smiles faintly and 
seems loth to part from Philemon as these two also 
rise.] 

Circe 

[Laughing again] Thy Philemon 
Will not forget so soon. 

[Circe and Ulysses go into the palace followed by 
Philinna.] 

Xenias 

[As Philemon turns toward him, stepping down 
from the veranda] 

The commander and our Lady of the Herbs seem 
to be in a right merry mood, Philemon. 

Philemon 
That they are indeed, to judge by the colors they 

fly. 

I 1*31 



CIRCE BS 



Xenias 
You take it not quite so. And yet methinks you 
have as good cause as they to be bhthe. 

Philemon 
I take your meaning, Xenias. Nevertheless I 'm 
sheer doubtful now and then — as though too 
great happiness should somehow have a 
sobering effect, as you might say, upon a 
fellow. 

Xenias 
Then belike when the commander sobers down a 
bit he will pass the word for a home start. 

Philemon 
Ay, truly I have thought of it. 

Xenias 

[Laughing and clapping his friend on the shoulder] 

But you 're not in a raking hurry about it ; eh, 
Philemon? 

[Re-enter Thermia round the Right corner. She 
comes quickly toicard the men,] 

I 124 1 



THE SECOND ACT 



But here 's Thermia again, in a hurry about some- 
thing or other surely. 

Thermia 
O Xenias ! I 've seen Graea again and have learnt 
that Eurylochus has called all the men to a 
meeting at the shore to-morrow morning early 
about that business. 

Philemon 
Ah, what business, Thermia? 

Thermia 
You tell him, Xenias. 

Xenias 
Philemon and I were just upon the same matter — 
about the commander passing the word to 
cast off. 

Philemon 
Well, it seems the mate has n't invited me yet. 

Xenias 
No, nor me ; he thinks you and I would pull on 

[ 125 1 



CIRCE 



the wrong quarter, laddie. But I shall be on 
hand just the same to see how the wind does 
blow. Don't you go, Philemon ; you have n't 
the heart for it. 

Thermia 
Ah, thou art sad, Philemon ; I feel for thee. 

Philemon 
O, let it come ; let it come ! 

Thermia 
Yes, the day is bound to come, sooner or later. I 
would I could belate it. But farewell now. 

[She goes out.] 

Philemon 
Xenias, I would not ask thee to hold back 
And thine own sentiments belie because 
Mine do enchain me so to Circe's isle 
As in its soil the roots of yonder oak 
Are wove and knotted. No ; it is for you all 
Timely and reasonable — nor for Ulysses least — 
To set your faces homeward. But to me 
That home so dimly beckons now, I know not 
If it be there or here ! 

[126 1 



ea T H E SECOND A C T ISS 

Xenias 
[Stepping closer to his friend] 'T was not thy wont 
To doubt, Philemon, with faint wavering heart, 
When we together oft by chilly Troy 
Crouch'd with our captain in an ambuscade 
Or sprang from the galley's prow full-arm'd ashore 
At Tenedos or Chryse. Be thyself ; be bold ! 
The girl is not to the island rooted fast. 
Even though, as they pretend, their mothers be 
Fig-trees and fountains. We go : take her! Herself, 
I '11 wager, nothing loth. 

[While the last words are exchanged between the two 
men the figure of Graea the swine-maiden, unob- 
served by them, is seen passing furtively behind and 
occasionally halting as if to listen.] 

Philemon 

Ah, Xenias, 
Thou knowest not Philinna. She is true 
Not to me only. 

Xenias 
I know. Untie them ! 
If need be, cut the knot ! Love glories 
In shifts and stratagems. 

[127] 



CIRCE BS 



Philemon 

Ah, 't were not easy ! 

Xenias 
Think ; ponder ! Swear it : // with Ulysses' crew 
Philemon saiU Philinna shall sail too. 

[Xenias seizes the hand of Philemon and they go 
out together at the Left.] 



128 



THE SECOND ACTSa 



II 

The Seashore, early in the forenoon of the next day. The 
scene is the same as in the First Act, but the signs of a 
temporary encampment have disappeared and the hull of 
the vessel is encumbered with grass and weeds. The curtain 
rising discovers both watches of the crew (excepting Glaucus 
and Philemon) disposed in scattered groups ; some of the 
men sitting or reclining ; others standing. All seem pre- 
occupied and the faces of most wear an anxious look. The 
demeanor of Eurylochus, who stands in a conspicuous 
position, is more confident and dignified than in former scenes. 

First Sailor 
Well, I suppose the devil knows how long we have 
got to wait before they show up. 

Second Sailor 
We 're lucky if they ever show up at all. Ten to 
one Glauc '11 come back without him. 

First Sailor 
Ay, ay ! It 's a question whether even Glaucus can 
get the commander's ear — leastwise he '11 
have to get Madam Circe out of the way first. 

Phorbas 
Mark me ; we are n't safe yet ! There 's no knowing 

[129 1 



CIRCE 



what sort of beasts she might turn us all into 
even now, just to keep him with her a year 
longer ! 

Second Sailor 
I 've a notion we 'd have done better to send a man 
of the commander's own watch — some one 
that never was a hog. 

Xenias 
Bravo ! where will you find such a one? Glauc's 
all right ; it 's enough to have a man who 
was n't always a hog. 

First Sailor 
Ha, ha ! Theron, that 's one on you. 

Theron 
To hell with it ! hang the hogs ! 

Elpenor 
My father sticks his. 

First Sailor 
That 's the talk, Elpy ; keep the culinary depart- 
ment straight ! 

[130 1 



THE SECOND ACTS 



Second Sailor 
But what if he 's so bewitched he won't come and 
talk anyway? 

EURYLOCHUS 

Peace, peace ! 
'T is scarce an hour since we despatch'd our 

comrade 
On no brief errand. 

Be patient ; have good hope ! It hangs, I know. 
On the razor's edge ; yet leans the weightier cause 
Toward consummation. Witchery there is still ; 
Else were there little need to prompt Ulysses 
To his plain duty. Drugs have their antidotes. 
Which to employ are easy when once found : 
More subtle — ay, more deadly ! than her potions 
Are these soft blandishments, cared she to play 

them 
To their full scope. But it has stood forth clear, 
Though once I did mistrust the promised convoy : 
Not in malevolence the enchantress binds 
Ulysses' will. And when good Glaucus comes. 
Fearless and plain of speech and charged with all 
The prayerful hot commands we laid upon him ; 
When he, unheard of Circe, bids his captain 

[131] 



CIRCE 



Arise, for old Laertes' sake ; and, backward 
With stern reproachful finger pointing, names 
The faithful wife who waits, Penelope, 
Icarius' daughter : — then, perhaps, this cord 
Of crimson devilment will snap — remembrance, 
Conscience awake. 

Xenias 
Eurylochus, was it not 
Here on this very shore a twelvemonth since, 
Launching the half-mann'd pinnace, you would fly. 
Your mates left in the lurch? 

Eurylochus 

But for Ulysses 
(This you would add) the doors of their foul prison 
Had closed on them forever. 

Xenias 

But to-day 
They jest and laugh, though 't is in Circe's isle. 

Theron 
Damn me, too, if we 're the only ones that have 

[132 1 



THE SECOND ACT 



learnt to mumble spoon-victuals and dance 
with tree-toads in the moonlight ! 

EURYLOCHUS 

Xenias, there is a fear to which all others 

Are as soft zephyrs to the tempest : it is 

When spirits uncanny mock the paltry arts 

Of mortal courage. But for my fear, no tidings, 

No warning, no alarm had reach 'd you. 

First Sailor 
Hi, yi ! [He points upward to the Right] They 're 
coming ! There 's old Glauc digging down 
this way. 

Second Sailor 
[Spying through his hand] Alone ! by the living 
gods ! 

[Groans are uttered by some of the men, with gestures 
of disgust and disappointment.] 

EuRYLOCHUS 

Hold ; wait ! 
He waves his staff ; he smiles ; he brings, be sure, 
No grievous answer ! 

[133 1 



CIRCE 



[Enter Glaucus bare-headed, carrying a staff with 
oak-leaves attached, which he waves to and fro.] 

Glaucus 

All 's well ! all 's well, lads ! It 's a go ; the com- 
mander has struck his colors. We 're off, sure ! 

[The men throng about Glaucus, some hurrahing 
and throwing up their caps.] 

Several Voices 

But where is he? What 'd he say? When 's he 
coming? 

Glaucus 

O, belay there ! Everything takes time. He had to 
go and talk with madam first, of course — and 
not take French leave like an orang-outang. 
He '11 be here in a jiffy. 

Phorbas 

Yes ; but what '11 she make him say when he does 
come? I tell you we 're not well out of this 
kettle of fish till we 've cut loose into high 
water ! 

[134 1 



THE SECOND ACT 



Glaucus 
Avast ! He '11 say what comes into his head. The 
lady 's got a head on her too : she 's not the 
kind of a craft to capsize at the first catspaw 
of wind, don't you believe it ! 

First Sailor 
Put on a Hfe-preserver, Phorb ! Shin up the mast ! 

Elpenor 
The mast is n't shinned up itself yet. 

EURYLOCHUS 

Glaucus, we owe thee thanks. 

Glaucus 

Not a bit of it ! I doubt if we 'd have dared to 

tackle him for another year if you had n't 

put us up to it, old man. But you may set me 

to walk the plank if he does n't talk fair now. 

Xenias 

Hold on, lads ! Seats again ! there he comes ! Stilly, 
stilly ! 

[135 1 



Sa CIRCE 



[Enter Ulysses at the Right, wearing sword and 
helmet. His aspect is gracious as he comes to a stand 
near the men, who sit in silence. Before speaking he 
casts a contemplative glance seaward, then turns 
toward the vessel.] 

Ulysses 
Our good ship ! Ah yes ; the seams 
Gape in her sun-parch'd sides, and rank weeds 

twine 
Their prickly meshes round her shrivehng keel. 
Yes, yes, my men ; full long we have sat still, 
Basking in languorous fancy, rapt, unheeding 
This summons to the wave. Nor tarried others 
Behind, to follow and seize us : as when those 
Who clomb the banks of Lotus-land and straying 
Ate of the flowery food, their souls 
Steep'd in forge tfulness, we seized and bound. 
Stifled their cries and dragg'd them to the shore. — 
To-day they are no more : so many 
Death's winged minions snatch'd and in wild sport 
Flung them to feed the sea-god's ravenous brood ; 
Or, on strange shores their white bones strewing, 

sign'd 
The landmarks of our course. — What wonder, then ! 

[136] 



ISTHE SECOND ACT 



What wonder, O brave comrades, if, so spent. 

So spared, beaching beside enchanted bowers 

Our single bark, lull'd under lustrous skies. 

Encircled by fond arms, we linger 'd fondly 

And long. But now, welcome the tug and strain 

Once more, as ye have will'd it : the bent oar, 

The creaking rowlock, Zephyrus' shrill pipe, 

The thundrous pounding surge ! Nor now, as then. 

Shall we unpiloted and blindly plow 

Our swift sea-furrow ; but wise Circe's words 

Will be to us as beacons. We shall know 

What winds press homeward ; on which hand to 

hold 
(When oft to night course our sick yearning 

prompts) 
Orion and the Bear. — If only 
Her solemn friendly warnings ye can heed, 
Which in good time I shall expressly cite. 
All may be well. 

EURYLOCHUS 

Trust your men, sir, for that — leastwise if past 
experience avail them anything in the way of 
instruction for the future. 

[137 1 



CIRCE 



Ulysses 
So prove it ! On the third morn we start. Meanwhile 
Let none stand idle ! To-day remains in part ; 
One other day to-morrow, whilst we urge 
The labors needful to our voyage. Draw water ; 
The wine- jars and the barley-crates replenish ; 
Refit the tackle. — Now let the old ship drink 
And plume herself again ! 

Several Voices 
[As the men, who have already sprung from their 
seats, gather round the vessel] 

Hurrah ! hurrah ! 
Off with her ! Rush her out ! 

Glaucus 
Look lively, lads ! Knock away those props ! Clear 
out the ways there for'ard ! 

Several Voices 
Clear it is ! Lively, lively ! 

Ulysses 
Eurylochus, I depute 

[138] 



THE SECOND ACT 



To you the furtherance of these tasks. My presence 
Another foresight claims. 

EURYLOCHUS 

Very well ; very well, sir ! — 

[To the men, some of whom have climbed on deck] 

Drop the bow-chains over there, boys ! Catch on, 
half a hundred of you ! There she goes ; steady, 
steady ! 

[The curtain falls as Ulysses goes out at the Right 
and the ship, pulled and pushed by many hands, 
begins to move toward the water.] 



139 



BS CIRCE 



III 

The back of the palace, in the evening of the same day as 
Scene II. — As the curtain rises Ulysses and Circe are dis- 
covered in the foreground : the former occupying a low seat 
by a tree ; the latter reclining near him. Upon the veranda, 
forming a group by themselves though not far removed from 
the others, Philemon, Xenias, Thermia, and Philinna are 
seated at a table, apparently playing at some game by the 
light of a hanging lamp. Ulysses and Circe are revealed to 
view by the rays of the moon, which near its full is rising 
above the palace roof. 

Circe 

Those children are making a brave effort to play 
at their game, Ulysses. They pretend to-mor- 
row will be soon enough for parting salutations. 

Thermia 

[Who has overheard the remark] O Circe ! Philinna 
cannot play at all ; she throws amiss every 
time. 

Circe 

Well, I doubt if her Philemon does much better. — 
There are at least two aching hearts over 
there, Ulysses. 

[140] 



THE SECOND ACTH 



Ulysses 
Yet I have remarked Philemon seems not exactly 
depressed by it. Indeed both he and Xenias 
surprise me, how cheerily they await the event. 

Circe 

They are men : new scenes, new labors summon 

them ; thoughts of their home. But my poor 

nymphs must rest contented hereafter with 

only me and the even sameness of our days. 

Ulysses 
Even so ye lived blithe-hearted ere we came. 

Circe 
Hearts more than blithe we knew not ere ye came. 

Ulysses 
Counts not the added bliss as gain meanwhile? 

Circe 
True gain or loss the final balance shows. 

Ulysses 
Then, till it 's struck, hope for the winning scale. 

[1411 



CIRCE 



Circe 

Such hopes help mortals cheat themselves, Ulysses, 
Even of the present profit. 

Ulysses 

But I note. 
Thy tacit precept, thine own example, leads us 
To drain the brimming cup and count as naught 
What pangs might follow. 

Circe 

Ulysses, my example 
(For in these closing hours I will confess it) 
Hath my soul's truest insight much belied. 
Thou didst with moly baffle my magic art : 
The woman's craft to baffle quite, no helper 
Could guide thee to a clue. Hate there was none — 
As well thou knowest : my bosom's pride conceal'd 
No sinister, vindictive purpose. But 
Poor Circe, worsted, won her mastery back 
And turn'd to sportive vengeance her defeat, 
When with wise incantations wise Ulysses 
She sang to sleep. 

[142] 



THE SECOND ACT 



Ulysses 
There needed those more weary, 
If not more wise, to wake him. 

Circe 

But meanwhile 
My gentle partners, my sweet nymphs, I so 
Imperilling left — that same mischance whereof 
With a vague prescience more than once I warn'd 

them — 
In these new toils ensnared, when the spell broke, 
To droop as their own dipt flowers. 
[While the last few words are pronounced there has 
been brisk talking^ not distinctly overheard, on the 
fart of the other group.] 

Thermia 
[Loudly] O, for shame, Philemon ! What a thing to 
say! 

Philinna 
[Passionately] 'T is he; 't is he himself cares not ! 

Circe 
[Turning toward the veranda, where Philemon and 
Xenias have just risen to their feet] 
Ah, now ! what coil is this? Philinna, speak ! 

[143] 



Q CIRCE 



Thermia 
O Circe ! 't is Philemon — and Xenias too ; they say 
We are but women's women : at the last moment 
(They tell us) we choose you I 

Circe 

O foolish children ! 
Must your vain quarreling blight such hours as 

these ! — 
But whither? Philemon ! Xenias ! will you leave us? 

Philemon 

'T is only, my lady, a certain business calls us 
forth expressly at this time. 

Ulysses 
So, my men? A strange time for business, is it not? 

Xenias 
It were so, sir, but for a slight affair of our own, to 
which we should properly give our attention 
by high moonlight only. 

Circe 
[Laughing] Holy Diana ! Have they, too, turned to 
magic? 

f 144 1 



THE SECOND ACT 

Xenias 
Pray excuse us, all ! 

[The two young men go out by the Right corner. 
Philinna, bending over the table, covers her face 
with her hands, while Thermia rising attempts to 
soothe her.] 

Circe 
O, mind not, dear Philinna, his hasty words ! 
Though heartless sounding, they did rather prove 
The same concern that draws thine own tears now. 
Lead her within ; thou canst console her, Thermia ; 
Thy stronger courage will avail. 

[The two ny7nphs go into the palace.] 

Ulysses 
Circe, I like not this foolery of the high moonlight. 
Though it be a trifle ludicrous, the lads seemed 
right serious about it nevertheless. 'T is unlike 
Philemon. I like it not. 

Circe 
O put the thought aside, Ulysses ! 
It is some youthful prank, or a mere jest 
Fresh-coin'd with sober mouth. Nor falls amiss 

[145] 



CIRCE 



Thus on the girl's untried, too tender spirit 
Some jar and crossing ere the final shock, 
So to forestall and break it. 

And this moon ! 
Well she deserves, Ulysses, in thy sight. 
Have we not sought ourselves her soothing spell? 
Masking a farewell colloquy in smiles, 
As yonder silver'd wave-tips feign deliverance 
From the encircling gloom of envious night. 

Ah ! if thou didst but know, 
Son of Laertes, half the struggles that wait thee 
By Neptune's billowy realm and, rescued thence. 
In deadly strife at thy rude island-home, 
Then wouldst thou feel, perchance, less haste to 

leave 
Circe, the frail enchantress. — Ay, not all 
The signs to guide and perils that impend 
Canst thou learn now. Some, long in mystery wrapt 
(Nor wouldst thou choose to speed them), time 

will teach ; 
Others, from ghostly lips compell'd, when soon, 
By Ocean's stream thy lone bark moor'd, thou 

standest 
At the dark doors of Hades to evoke 
Theban Tiresias' shade, the seer shall utter. 

[ 146 1 



THE SECOND ACT 



Ulysses 

Dread Circe ! 
O strange, unpitying prophetess, no mortal 
Reaches by sail or oar that awful strand. 

Circe 

Thou shalt be one, Ulysses, who, twice dying. 
Twice lives to rue his birth. — But hearken ; 
And on the mindful tablets of thy soul 
Grave these my warnings. Back from the sunless 

shore 
Of pale Persephone the refluent tide 
Will bear thy bark unurged : till, facing 
The ruddy sources of recover'd day, 
Fresh-waken'd breath of quickening winds she 

feels 
Smite on her listless sail. So hold her prow, 
Toward Eos striving surely, from my isle 
Farther and farther speeding. 

Ulysses 

But how soon? 
How soon, O Circe, may our glad eyes behold 
Some signal of known lands .'^ 

[147] 



CIRCE 

Circe 

So much not yet 
May be unveil'd ; nor yet, what remnant lingers 
Of crew or vessel until that hour. — But hear, 
How (lest their doom be hasten'd) on thy helms- 
man, 
When 'twixt unlovely neighbors he must steer, 
The crisis hangs. On this side Scylla lurks. 
Snarling in her cliff-cavern ; on that, Charybdis 
Retches, with swirling gorge. Thrice happy he 
Who, nor to the right inclining nor the left, 
Cleaves straight the midway mark with even keel. 

Ulysses 
But why not of the engulfing pest steer wide 
And with arm'd hand fend off the other's onset? 

Circe 

Ah! 

Thus do presumptuous mortals vaunt their cun- 
ning. 

Or vain force, where alone swift vision wins. — 

If, then, alternate ruin ye elude. 

In some part scatheless, sweep with thankful 
hearts 

[148 1 



THE SECOND ACT 



The gleaming waters' wide unbroken waste. 
Then soon, Ulysses, as to my lay thou only 
Mightst listen and be saved, even so alone 
May'st thou, safe sailing, hear the Sirens' song. 

Ulysses 
Breathe any so sweet a strain as that, O Circe, 
Which binds the caller at the moaning porch? 

Circe 
Not binds, but draws ! No sense-benumbing spell 
Boast the sea-maidens, nor themselves are fair. 
Their theme, what men call glory ; and the strain, 
Bell-like, o'er the hush'd seas far pealing, calls 
With a resistless summons to their shore. 
It, with white skulls and rotting wreckage lined. 
Thou shalt speed by, yet hear. Lash'd to the mast 
By thy men's hands — themselves with wax-stopt 

ears — 
Bid them, when thou with frantic dumb entreaty 
Wouldst sign their stroke toward that melodious 

lure, 
Pull stronger and swerve not, with firmer bonds 
Lashing thee still, while yet one echo 
Of siren-voices lingers. 

[149 1 



CIRCE 



Ulysses 
Circe, full long 
Thy tale of helps and hazards, though not few 
Still on their fixt oracular moment wait. 
Be these enough, while courage step by step, 
Conning each several danger, learn to face it. 

Circe 
'T is well. 

[Thus far Circe has been reclining, with occasional 
changes of attitude due to the earnestness of her dis- 
course. She now rises to a sitting posture.] 

[Jjaughing] But forget not, most prudent captain, 
The risks thy moonstruck followers would invite 
In these my precincts ! 

[She gives her hand to Ulysses, who assists her to 
rise.] 

It were worth while to note 
Their traces. Come ; they went this way. 

[She leads out at the Right, Ulysses following with 
downward thoughtful look.] 



150 



THE SECOND ACT 



IV 

The grove upon sloping ground, at noon of the day following 
the previous scene. — Enter from the Left downward Myrto 
leading Mikkos. With a glance toward the path on the Right 
she seats herself under the tree by which Mercury appeared 
to Ulysses, while the ape, whose chain Myrto continues to 
hold, swings himself to a low branch above her. 

Myrto 

Well, Mikkos, they are not here yet. — But Graea 

never loiters and they will soon come. Now I 

charge thee once again ; and be thou, as a 

reflecting animal, less slow to curb thy native 

animosities, Mikkos ! Look not upon Eury- 

lochus as thine enemy, receiving him with 

angry and unseemly gestures. Eurylochus is 

our friend to-day ; and his co-operation in 

the present emergency is invaluable. — Hear'st 

thou, Mikkos? [The ape grins and wags his 

head.] Very well ; now conduct thyself like a 

rational being ! I hear them coming. 

[Enter from the Right upward "EvRYhOcnvs, followed 

closely by Graea. The former, after a suspicious 

glance at Mikkos, who shows his teeth and tries to 

shake his chain, turns inquiringly toward Myrto 

who remains seated while the others stand. 

[1511 



CIRCE 



EURYLOCHUS 

Graea has by her signs made known to me, Myrto, 
that you would have me attend you here at 
this time ; and I have inferred from the 
earnestness of her manner that the message 
is of importance. 

Myrto 
Important indeed it is, Eurylochus : I need your 
assistance; and not for myself alone — per- 
chance even somewhat for thine own weal ; 
but especially on behalf of the lady Circe and 
all of us her poor companions — whom to be 
sure thou lovest not. 

Eurylochus 
One may love not, Myrto, and yet be nowise lack- 
ing in good-will. You would not have called 
in an unfriendly hand to aid you. 

Myrto 
In the present matter at any rate thou wilt be sure 
to side with us. — Wouldst thou choose to take 
one of us home with thee in the ship, Eury- 
lochus? 

1152 1 



THE SECOND ACT 



EURYLOCHUS 

How? What? Forbid it, mighty Apollo ! Is your 
mind wandering, Myrto? 

Myrto 
It is not I, but a pair of your pretty comrades whose 
wits are wandering ; for they would carry 
away Philinna, unbeknown to Ulysses and 
the rest of you, hiding her in the vessel. 

EuRYLOCHUS 

Ah ! we know of Philemon's madness — and the 
girl consents to this? 

Myrto 
No indeed ! they will put her to sleep with Circe's 
drug — 

EURYLOCHUS 

[Interrupting] O Heracles ! 

Myrto 
And so bring her aboard the ship to-night, while 
you are all at the palace partaking of the 
farewell feast. 

[153] 



CIRCE 



EURYLOCHUS 

Then if you have discovered this plot, why not 
warn her straightway and cut it short? 

Myrto 

Not so, Eurylochus ! 

[Myrto rises and addresses herself earnestly to hirn.] 

Not till the latest moment must Philinna 
Perceive the strange and treacherous design 
Of him she loves, who, if he loved her less, 
Would spurn the trick his clever mate has taught 

him. 
Now hear me ; and observe 

How thou shalt aid us, with least harm to foil 
This harmful scheme. Nothing the herb itself 
Of baneful sort to mind or body works : 
But whoso of its fragrance breathes in slumber. 
For six-and-thirty hours wakes not again. 
Nor feels, nor can be roused. They hold its leaves 
Gather'd beneath pale moonbeams, when the plant 
Best cools its juices and conserves its force. 
These they will bruise and spread 
About the pillow of Philinna's couch, 
Where she each day — now at this very hour — 

[154] 



83 T H E SECOND ACTS 

Seeks her brief noontide sleep : by the moss'd bank 

So near the waterfall its gauzy spray 

Like an ethereal veil enshrouds the bower 

Where our companion rests ; and muffled tones, 

Voiced by perpetual whirling waters, soothe 

The slumberer's ear. Of vines her bed is join'd : 

Gnarl'd stems which from the vineyard pruning 

once 
We fashion'd to a woodland couch, to sit 
And watch the headlong stream. This lifting 
(So Graea heard them whisper) they will bear 
With its fond burden shoreward ere the dawn, 
While yet ye feast and revel. And they hope 
To hold her hidden (nor will she wake) until 
Too far at sea the flying ship hath sped 
For ruth or reparation. 

EURYLOCHUS 

O great gods ! 
Herself by good rights, waking then, should rue 
Her wanton witcheries. 

Myrto 
Peace, Eurylochus ; peace ! 
Perverse and all one-sided is thy sense : 

[155] 



OS CIRCE @ 

On the other side thy mother bore thee bHnd. 
Not yet hast thou been taught the part thou 

playest 
In the prevention. — At the feast this night, 
Ere the two plotters to their work shp out, 
I at my wheel (whom thou wilt watch) shall give 

thee 
This sign — with finger prest to lip : whereat 
Thyself withdrawing noiselessly to join 
Graea who waits without, with her wilt hie 
To poor Philinna's bower : and both shall bear 
Hillward by the back path the couch and sleeper 
Into the banquet-hall to Circe. 

EURYLOCHUS 

And what revenge 
Will Circe wreak upon the thieves.'^ 

Myrto 

Circe is wise ; 
Needs not our counsel. — And, Eurylochus, mark : 
Thy secrecy here will stand thee in good stead. 
A narrow pathway tread ye all, so long 
In this round isle ye linger ! Go ; and be mindful ! — 

[Eurylochus goes out at the Right downward.] 

[156] 



THE SECOND ACT 



Now, Graea — for thy sharp ear no caution needs, — 
His part and thine are fixt. And further, Graea ; 
When chilly night descends, visit her bower 
And lay soft fleeces o'er Philinna's form, 
Sheltering her deep dishonest sleep. 

[Graea by signs gives her assent, Mikkos jumps 
down from the tree, and all go out by the Left upward.] 



157 



CIRCE 



V 

The same as the first scene of the play. The Front of the 
Palace in the afternoon. The porch and its steps are already 
in the shade. The curtain rising discovers Thermia seated 
upon one of the lower steps thoughtfully regarding the 
fountain, which plays faintly. Enter Myrto upon the porch 
from within. 

Myrto 
[Taking her seat upon a step] Yes, there is shade 
here now ; Circe will come soon. 

Thermia 
I know not why I feel so anxious, Myrto, — wonder- 
ing what communication you can have to 
make while Ulysses and his men are away at 
the lading of their vessel. 

Myrto 
Now pray, Thermia, if what I shall say to Circe 
startle you in some degree, restrain yourself 
and show not perturbation. Circe, as you 
well know, likes not hasty suggestion in what 
concerns her deeply. 

Thermia 
'T is true ; I will be prudent. O, what can it be.^^ 

I 158] 



THE SECOND ACT 



Myrto 
Wait ; here she conies now. 

[CmcE entering descends the stairs to a seat just 
within the lengthening shadow by the fountain. She 
wears her catiary -colored tunic ^ but not the black robe.] 

Circe 
[Turning toward the stairs] Myrto ! Thermia ! 
Where is PhiHnna? 

Myrto 
She sleeps, my lady. 

Circe 
Sleeps still .f^ 'T is past midday more than two hours ! 
Philinna is wont to sleep soundly, but not long. 

Myrto 
She will sleep long this time, Circe : Philinna will 
not wake to-day. 

Circe 
[Starting to her feet] What ! Not wake to-day .^^ Dost 
thou trifle with me, girl.^^ 

[159] 



CIRCE 



Myrto 
Indeed I do not trifle with you. But fear not, dear 
lady ; there has been mischief, but harm will 
not come to Philinna. 

CmcE 
Mischief — mischief? Me thinks I divine somewhat. 
But speak ; explain thyself forthwith ! 

Myrto 
They have given her the sleeping-plant which last 
night they gathered under the moon. 

Thermia 
[To herself] Ah, I see my precious Xenias' finger 
here ; the traitor ! 

Circe 

! O ! Audacious, shameless souls ! 

With my own drugs would they outwit me.'* O ! 

1 see ! I see ! Thus they will steal Philinna. 

But holy Diana ! [Laughing scornfully] So sly, and 

yet so simple ! 
They were twice f oil'd, ere such a plot could prosper. 

f 160] 



THE SECOND ACT 



Myrto 
Truly there needs small skill to circumvent them 
Such I have summon'd. 

Circe 

But the herb? 



Myrto 



I show'd them. 



Circe 
What? Myrto, Myrto ! 

Myrto 

Stay ; hear me, Circe. 
Their plan I knew beforehand ; and 't was better 
She knew it not ; should rather sleep ; nor wake 
Till the whole farce were play'd — seest thou, my 
lady? 

Circe 
O clever Myrto ! Not in vain thou sittest 
Demurely by thy wheel, as if its hum 
And spinster's sordid finger-work were all 
Thy wits could compass ! — thou, the nixie-born ; 
With newts and water-beetles nurtured ! — But how 
Came it to light? 

1161] 



CIRCE 



Myrto 

They came to me, 
To find for them the herb. The tale they told. 
How, when the ship had sail'd, among themselves 
Some sport they would devise. But Graea already 
Had overheard their whisperings and advised me. 

Thermia 
Graea is everywhere and hears all things ! 

Circe 
Hush, Thermia ! 

Myrto 
Because she hath no tongue they do forget 
Her sharpened ears. — Safely Philinna sleeps ; 
And to your side shall she be brought to-night 
During the banquet. 

Circe 
Ah ! ah ! 

Thermia 
And will they dare, finding her not. 
To wait for such an issue .'^ 

[ 162 ] j 



THE SECOND ACTE 



Circe 

Whither pray 
Might they seek refuge? — Two alone are guilty ; 
And two alone shall answer for the guilt ; 
Nor shall the feast be marr'd. Go now ; 
And urge its preparation. 

[The two nymphs go into the palace.] 

Circe 
Poor purblind men ! 

O, how short of the mark their vision falls ! 
Phantoms, bred of precipitate desire, 
Aiming to grasp, but comprehending not 
The check and natural limit. — So the same 
At whose achievement we should rave, in failure 
We pity and forgive. Ay ; to know more 
And to see farther than for themselves they see 
Doth make forbearance easy. How would they 

change 
For sweet Philinna's rainbow-guarded sleep 
Their own long slumber in the fishy deep ! 

[She ascends the steps and goes into the palace.] 



163 



Ha CIRCE 



VI 

The banquet-hall late at night. The feasting is near its end 
and the wine has begun to be poured at the farewell enter- 
tainment given by Circe to her guests in the last hours 
before they set sail. The Enchantress sits at the head of her 
table, wearing her black robe and coronal of pearls. Thermia 
and Myrto are in their usual places ; but Philinna is absent 
and the throne at Circe's left has been removed. Ulysses 
sits at the head of the table by the dais. His demeanor is 
serious ; but the men though orderly are in high spirits as 
they join in the chorus, with the exception of Philemon and 
Xenias, who seem pre-occupied, seated together near the 
exit behind Ulysses. Eurylochus is so placed as to face 
Myrto at her wheel. The first chorus following is sung before 
the rise of the curtain. 

{Chorus of melt's voices 'behind the scenes) 

Never fear for your ship if you handle her right ; 
She will scamper all day and eats nothing at night. 
Stick her nose in the sand, she is safe in the stall ; 
She 's a carriage and horses and stable and all. 

[Curtain rises] 



[164] 



THE SECOND ACT 



Glaucus 
[Sings] We sampled his cheeses and bunk'd in his 

den, 
But when he came home he ate six of our men. — 
" People don't come a-foot when they come to 

see me : 
Now where did you leave the old frigate? " cried he. 

(Chorus) 

Glaucus 
It was a big pickle, we forged a big lie : 
" A thunderbolt struck her. Sir Cyclops," said I ; 
" Tore a hole in her timbers as wide as a door ; 
She sank to the bottom and we swam ashore." 

(Chorus) 

Glaucus 
So we punch'd out his eye with a stake while he 

snored. 
Then broke for the landmg and scrambled aboard. — 
His rock was a load for a twenty -mule team : 
*' Heave hard there " ! I shouted ; " heave hard, 
Polypheme ! " 

(Chorus) 

[165] 



CIRCE EH 



Glaucus 

First time he shot high ; and the swashing great 

wave 
Sent her back on a dance to the mouth of his cave. 
His second fell short : 't was a booster behind 
And scooted her for'ard, quite well to our mind. 

(Chorus) 

Never fear for your ship if you handle her right ; 
She will scamper all day and eats nothing at night. 
Stick her nose in the sand, she is safe in the stall ; 
She 's a carriage and horses and stable and all. 

Circe 

Our friend Glaucus would usurp the role of his 
captain, apparently, when he celebrates that 
famous scene, Ulysses. 

Ulysses 

And right welcome is he to any glory he may 
borrow therefrom. Verily there was little 
enough for me to boast of in the adventure. 



166] 



THE SECOND ACT 



Glaucus 
It 's true the commander got us into the scrape, 
madam, if he will allow me ; but there would 
need a longer song than any we have sung yet 
to tell the whole story, how cleverly he got us 
out of it. 

Theron 
Damme ! a great song ! Not a word about the 
tipple that did it all ! 

Elpenor 
And the sheep-ride too. 

A Voice 
Ay, ay ! — 't was the tipple that did for him. Let 
the old sinner play blind-man's buff with his 
bell-wether now ! 

Ulysses 
Enough ! 

Now the cry homeward and the forward glance 
Shall banish retrospect. These claim our care. 
Fair winds suffice not ; 

Nor the good hopes by gracious friends inspired, 
Where prudent counsel fails. 

[167] 



CIRCE 

Circe 

Most timely said ! 
Experience ends not with each wondrous hap. 
Ye know not yet, good men, your several fates 
Cradled beyond my island's guardian pale. 
Obedience and true caution shall avail you 
Not less because your course be pointed clear. 
These save while they endure. — 
But now our ancient welcome is exchanged 
For farewell greetings. Nor indeed comes song 
Amiss at such an hour. 

[She claps her hands twice and Thrattis enters with 
her lute, standing by the sideboard. While the attention 
of all is thus drawn away Myrto gives the sign to 
EuRYLOCHUS, who sUps out unobserved.] 

Circe 

Our guests have just sung a gay song in honor of 
their ship, Thrattis. Perchance thou canst 
match it with one from thine own store. 

[Thrattis smiles faintly and begins a slow prelude 
upon her instrument in a minor key.] 

(168 1 



THE SECOND ACT 



Elpenor 
She knows how to make it cry. 

Theron 
Hush, boy ; mar not the music ! 

[The girl sings slowly with irregular pauses and 
interludes at significant points in the recital. The 
music itself is marked by chromatic changes, with 
the last two stanzas taking on distinctly the character 
of a funeral march. Before that part of the performance 
is reached Philemon and Xenias, taking advantage 
of the rapt attention of the company, steal out 
unnoticed.] 

Thrattis 

Sea-wind o'er the ripples crept ; 
His cool breath my temples swept ; 
Sea-wind whisper'd, as I slept 

Near to the wave. 
From his caverns, hollow-toned. 
Sea- wind mock'd my dream and moan'd. 
In my sleep I turn'd and groan'd 

As in the grave. 

[169 1 



Bg CIRCE 



Through lank grasses, swaying slow, 
Peering with green eyes a-glow 
Sea-wind stole and mutter'd low : 

" Wake not ! sleep on. 
If my vision thou wouldst share : — 
The split mast ; the lightning's glare ; 
Shrouds whirl'd wildly in mid-air ! 

See ! her helm gone, 
The vessel plunges. Lo ! again 
Caught by the deadly hurricane, 
Crackling bolt and hissing rain, 

The hull spins round ; 
Breaks, sinks ! One man breasts the tide ; 
Clutches spar and climbs astride ; 
A sea-courser seems to ride. — 

Vague depths profound 
With white feet the others tread ; 
Seek on ocean's floor their bed ; 
Or, to rude shores blindly led. 

Full nigh they draw ; 
Ram-like, butt the flinty stones. 
The gray sea a dirge intones. 
Whilst the fat casing of their bones 

Dumb fishes gnaw." 



170 



THE SECOND ACT 



Ulysses 
[After a pause, when the chords struck in conclusion 
of the song have ceased to sound] 

The maid hath not sailed the south seas in vain, 
upon my soul, Circe ! 

Glaucus 
By the twin gods, ye would think she came straight 
from Davy Jones' locker, let out alive ! 

Circe 
'T is a brief step from life to death : why then 
Shall not the venturous errant fancy feign it 
Thrice taken and retraced? From death to life 
Were as from sleep to waking ; nor, if dreams 
Might linger on the skirts of such a change. 
Should they unheeded pass. — 

The words of Circe are interrupted by the entrance at the 
Right rear doorway of Eurylochus and Graea bearing the 
rustic couch upon which the form of Philinna is extended 
as upon a bier. As they enter, Graea, who sustains the rear 
end at the head of the sleeper, swings to her right backward 
and the two bearers set the couch and its burden down by 
Circe's side in full view of the company. Eurylochus 
quickly resumes his seat among the men, while the swine- 

[1711 



CIRCE 



maiden, wearing her long whip coiled as a girdle round her 
waist, retires to a position near the lute-girl, where the two 
remain standing side by side. Mikkos, who had sprung into 
the room close behind the bearers, is seized by Myrto and 
tied fast with shortened chain to the spokes of her wheel. 
The form and features of Philinna are motionless as in 
death. She is clothed in her gauzy dress of noonday. The 
banqueters in profound silence gaze with horror at the 
apparition. Circe, laying hand upon her wand, faces her 
guests steadily with a trace of irony in her look, while a few 
notes of solemn music fall from the lute of Thrattis. 

Ulysses 

[Half rising from his chair with gesture of inquiry 
and deprecation] 

What!— Circe? Thy PhiHnna?— is this death? 
Forbid it, ye kind gods ! 

Circe 

PhiHnna? — or PhiHnna's shade? 

Ask thine own followers, great commander ; ask 

Pale Hecate's twin votaries ! 

Ulysses 
\Who has risen to his feet and scanning the company 

[172] 



THE SECOND ACT 



perceives for the first time that not all his men are 
present] 

Ha ! what? Philemon? Xenias? — where? 

EURYLOCHUS 

[Saluting] They encountered us, sir, as we ascended 
hither bearing the sleeping maid. They were 
on their way to seize her, but when they saw 
themselves cheated of their prey they cried 
out and fled incontinently to the woods. 

Ulysses 

Great Zeus ! no flight shall save them ! Up, 
Eurylochus ! 

\With a stern gesture of command] 

Take Glaucus and three others of your watch ; go 
forth ; seek out, arrest the caitiffs ! Put them 
in irons and wait for us on board ! 

[Eurylochus and Glaucus stand up, several other 
men spring to their feet as volunteers. Mikkos exhibits 
excitement, and Graea slowly uncoils the whip from 
her waist. Thermia turns pale and cannot conceal 
her agitation.] 

[173] 



CIRCE 



Circe 

[Lifting her wand gently] Hold, Ulysses ! Hold ! 
Refrain ; bend not thy thoughts to chains 
Or cruel punishment. Are they not even now 
By failure and humiliation scourged? 

Ulysses 

[To whom EuRYLOCHUS and Glaucus are looking 
expectantly] 

Never ! Never ! 

The door behind the dais opens, a golden light fills the pas- 
sage-way thus revealed, and Mercury, briUiantly arrayed as 
in the second scene of the play, stands forth upon the plat- 
form. His step gives no sound ; and, as he extends his hands 
(one holding the winged wand) gently forward over the 
company, all the men feel the soothing influence without 
turning their heads to observe its source ; while Ulysses, 
and the others who stand, sink quietly to their seats in 
motionless attitude. Ulysses slightly bows his head. The 
inmates of the palace are not affected like the guests ; they 
maintain their former demeanor ; but Circe lowers her 
hand with the wand to the table before her. 



[ 174 



THE SECOND ACT 



Mercury 
By the Father sent 
I come this time, to loose the tangled web 
Of crossing motive, Circe, in thy bowers. 
He in the scales of fate the fortunes weigh'd 
Of these thy mortal visitors all, thine own, 
Of thy beloved nymphs ; and bade me speed, 
Taking my wand, wherewith for woe or weal 
I seal men's eyes and, when I will, unseal. 

The offending youths — already are they 
Themselves in closer toils of slumber caught 
Than the charm'd herb upon the maiden brought. 
At my behest their living phantoms glide ; 
Upward or downward their blind steps I guide. 

[Without turning, the god raises his wand gently 
with backward movement of the hands, and in the wide 
opening behind him the forms of Philemon atid 
Xenias appear, standing side by side. Their eyes 
are closed; their features pallid in the weird light; 
their look is of complete unconsciousness. Thrattis 
strikes major chords.] 

Their fault the Father pardons ; and decrees 
They shall be toss'd no more on billowy seas, 

[175 1 



CIRCE 



But to their lives' end tread the enchanted soil 
Which of its bloom they plotted to despoil. 

[Mercury sways the wand slowly from behind for- 
ward, and the two sleepers (Philemon first, Xenias 
close behind him) guided by the spell pass across the 
dais, gliding down behind the banqueters until they 
reach a position between Thermia and Philinna's 
couch. Their footsteps give no sound ; their movement 
is mechanical ; in the place indicated they stand stiff 
and motionless with closed eyes.] 

Mercury 
Arise, Ulysses ! 

[Ulysses stands up; and simultaneously his men all 
rise silently to their feet] 

Now thy waiting bark 
Swims in the darkling haven ; but full soon 
Eos her saffron portals will unbar 
And wake the convoy breezes. Tarry not ! — 
Thy crew the Father's stern assignments claim ; 
I sign them to march. Forward ! in his name. 

{The funeral march which closed the song of Thrat- 
Tis is played softly, and the men pass out behind 
Mercury in single file, moving noiselessly and with 

[176] 



THE SECOND ACT 



the utmost 'precision, as if under the hypnotizing in- 
fluence of the wand waved above them. The company of 
EuRYLOCHUs marches first, headed by their leader 
and Glaucus, Theron and Elpenor bringing up 
the rear. The other company, excepting Philemon 
and Xenias, immediately follows. Ulysses, who 
has donned his helmet, begins to speak as the last 
man passes and the music ceases.] 

Ulysses 

To gloom of future fates beholden fast, 

The parting hour yet beckons toward the past. 

What blessings lay beneath rapt moments hidden 

Now to the pictured memory rise unbidden ; 

Each, as with pointed stylus' steely smart, 

Prick'd and deep graven on the shrinking heart. — 

Farewell ! O sorceress benign, farewell ! 

He knows not life, who knows not Circe's spell. 

[Ulysses turns and goes out. The music begins again 
in the major key. Mercury, poised upon one foot 
in an attitude similar to that presented by a familiar 
statue of the god, leans far forward with wand pointed 
straight at the sleepers. Philinna opens her eyes and 
slowly rises to a sitting posture on her couch. Phile- 

[177 1 



CIRCE 



MON and Xenias open their eyes and draw long 
breaths, Philinna, turning first toward Circe, with 
one hand clasps the left hand of the Enchantress; then, 
with the other, recognizing Philemon, takes his right. 
Thermia, when Xenias wakes, seizes his left hand 
with her own, and with a joyous look lays her right 
upon his shoulder. The two youths have themselves 
joined hands. Myrto seated, whom Mikkos strives 
to reach, holds him firmly at army's length by the 
collar. Graea, standing beside Thrattis, whip in 
hand, glares fiercely at the exit. 

The countenance of Circe is deeply sad. Her wand 
lies relinquished upon the table. She continues to 
gaze, as if into vague distance, in the direction of her 
departed guest.] 

CURTAIN 



178 



BEBKEL£T and UEIAB 

CALIFORKIA 

1907-1910 



ei-^ 



